Youth & Family Ministries

At St. Mark's youth and family ministry is fully integrated into the life of a congregation, and directed outward toward witness and service to the community and world. It is also deeply rooted and grounded in God's Word and the proclamation of the Christian Gospel.

Our youth and family ministry has an evangelical purpose, to tell about God's grace--that God has loved us with an everlasting love whose name is Jesus; that God has done for us what we cannot do for ourselves, namely, claim us and grace us with a forever love. Youth and family ministry is centered in the life and way of Jesus and focused on our growth as disciples.

The goal of St. Mark's youth ministry is to nurture the next generation in the faith--passing on God's Story as a living Word--inviting young people to come and see, come and follow, and go and tell. Youth ministry is is an integral part of the this congregation's mission and ministry. Teams of caring, trusted adults and responsible, committed young leaders volunteer to undertake this ministry at St. Mark's.

Youth ministry focuses on faith formation. This is about helping young people grow in the grace, faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ, and deepening and strengthening their relationship with God.

How does St. Mark's seek to achieve these goals? 

• Through a comprehensive educational program that includes Sunday School and Vacation Bible School.

• Periodic Children's Church services, allow the youth to actively participate in the worship experience.

• With a Milestone Ministry, based on faith passage moments encountered by children, youth and adults.

• By sponsoring family events, that are both fun and educational.

• By engaging the youth in an active social ministry program to reach out to those in need in our community - from collecting soup, to singing Christmas carols to shut-ins.

• Through athletic competition in the John H. Bower Sunday School Basketball League, bowling and other activities