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Dear Saint Mark Family,
I pray you are well and are continuing to be the light of Christ in the world.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have been given the mandate by our Lord to “let your light shine before others, so they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Saint Mark, I pray continuously for you that you will shine wherever you are, in all you do, and at all times, for there are so many who yet do not know God’s love for them and that they, too, are beloved children of God. You may be the only light someone sees that reveals the goodness and love of God to that person.
Throughout the week I have been following the news outlets and watching clips of the Tribute Service for First Lady Rosalynn Carter held at Glenn Memorial UMC. Two of the primary things about her that stood out to me, in addition to the great wife, mother, and grandmother she was, were the work she did to de-stigmatize mental health, and her kindness to others.
She worked relentlessly to raise awareness of the needs of those suffering mental health condition and called for political backing to address the topic. She took on an issue that was deemed untouchable by others. Because of her persistent work and determination, the Mental Health Act was passed in 1980.
She was also kindhearted to each person she encountered. Listening to one of the employees at the Carter Center and to so many others, I got the sense that Mrs. Carter treated everyone with a kindness that was sincere and natural. Her kindness was not based on anything else but seeing each person as worthy of respect and to be treated with dignity.
I had never met First Lady Carter, but I believe she was a good example of someone who let her light shine. I pray each of us will also be an example of letting our light shine to the glory of God.
On another note, I am excited to share the good news that the connector between the parking deck and the 2nd floor of the Education Building is now “officially” open for use. You can now access both buildings, including the chapel and the sanctuary, directly from the parking deck, using the elevator or the stairs.
Next week Friday, December 8th, will be our outdoor movie night. Come on out and be a part of this fun gathering, as we watch “Elf,” drink hot chocolate, popcorn, and more. Invite a friend, take the whole family. Dress warm, bring you lawn chairs and blankets, and let’s have a fun night together.
Please note that our last Wednesday Night Supper ministry for the year will be December 13th. We will resume our Wednesday night gatherings on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Mark your calendars with these dates.
Thanks to everyone who participated in our Sponsor a Meal on Giving Tuesday. At the last count 334 meals were purchased. Your generosity will make a dent in eradicating hunger among our unhoused and food insecure guests, who we serve every Saturday and Tuesday, here at Saint Mark. What you have done for the least of these brothers and sisters, you have done for Christ. Thank you.
Finally, this Sunday begins the season of Advent. Throughout the Christian church, Advent is a time of preparation for celebrating the birth of Christ, and expectation for his second coming. The themes of the season are hope, peace, joy, and love. On Sunday we will begin with the theme of hope. Our Advent Devotional, written by the members of our congregation will be available, in print (a limited amount) and via email. Be on the lookout for these daily inspirations that will be a blessing to you throughout the season.
I look forward to worshiping God with you this Sunday.
God’s blessings,
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