Growing Together, Serving All, Building a Beloved Community
As we reflect on this past year, St Mark Lutheran Church has powerfully embodied our core mission: to unite in worship, grow in wisdom, and serve with love. We are thrilled to report on our ongoing accomplishments in fostering an inclusive environment for spiritual growth, nurturing youth development, strengthening families, and extending our outreach both locally and globally. These achievements are a testament to the intrepid spirit and fierce commitment of our members and friends. For all that has been, we give thanks!
Our Accomplishments: A Year of Sustained Growth and Service
Throughout the past year, we are proud to share the vibrant tapestry of ministries and programs that have continued to flourish, impacting countless lives:
Nurturing Youth & Strengthening Families
- Our St Mark Lutheran Church Preschool continues to provide an affordable, Christian-values-based curriculum for children aged 2 1/2 to 5.
- Our strong collaboration with Family Focus has served hundreds of families and children through crucial services like parent education, teen parent support, and playgroups.
- We proudly sponsor Cub Scouts Pack 0595 and Scouts BSA Troop 0306, fostering character development and leadership.
- The Challenger League baseball program continues to bring joy to mentally and physically challenged youth with the support of dedicated “buddies.”
Fostering Inclusion & Community
- St Mark stands as a truly welcoming home, affirming that every individual is a beloved child of God.
- “Sine Nomine Presents” has brought our wider community together through inspiring public music concerts and cultural events.
- Our Knitter and Quilter workshops foster intergenerational fellowship while creating items for homeless people, veterans, and baptized infants.
- We proudly host community events, including Blood Donation drives, local High School events, and the Virginia Children’s Chorus.
Expansive Outreach & Social Justice
- Locally, our PORT (People Offering Resources Together) Ministry supports the emergency winter shelter, providing meals and essential services for homeless individuals.
- Globally, we support Refugio de Los Suenos in Ecuador, a China Orphanage, aid for the Ukrainian people, and the work of Lutheran World Relief (LWR).
- Our outreach extends to ongoing initiatives like Pink Envelope offerings for Natasha House, the Church Women United Food Closet, and support for Thrive Peninsula and Kairos Prison Ministry.