Groups & Ministries

What happens once I join the Church?

It is very likely that you will be invited to become more active in the Church or the community by using your interests, your time, and maybe even by exploring something new and meeting some new friends.

Groups for Fellowship and Fun

  • Daughters of the King (DOK) – An Order (official group of the Episcopal Church) of Episcopal Women who take a training course, make vows to pray and serve, and pay national and chapter dues. They pray daily and meet occasionally for service projects. For more information click here.
  • Junior Daughters of the King – Not yet old enough to be members of the DOK, these J-DOK’s aged 8-21 also take a course and training before making a vow to pray for and serve God’s Kingdom. For more information click here.

Ministries of the Church

  • The Parish Nurse Ministry – Supported by the Bill Bunnell Wellness Fund of St. Mark’s, our volunteer Parish Nurse provides regular blood pressure screenings, health and wellness ideas, information for the announcements and  bulletin boards, health fairs, reminding us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit! They are wise and generous professionals who are ready to listen, give advice on health-related issues, and take time to pray with you.
  • The Vestry – More than the governing board, the Vestry oversees the financial and business end of things; provides direction and discernment; and faithfully attends worship. Three (3) years is the commitment of time to attend meetings, as well as an annual retreat and planning day, and provide leadership to the parish.
  • The Nursing Home Ministry – St. Mark’s members visit two (2) local nursing homes once a month to bring music, worship and Holy Communion to residents. Some have memory-loss but can sing along and remember all the words of favorite hymns. Due to COVID-19, this ministry has been on hold throughout 2021 and 2022 but will re-launch once the pandemic subsides to safer measures.
  • Blessing Boxes – Two (2) Blessing Boxes are located on the front porch of our Parish Hall, easily accessed from the semi-circle drive right off our busy road. They are open 24/7 year-round for food and toiletries, as well as clothing such as hats, gloves, and socks during the cold weather months. No voucher is needed for proof of need. We urge taking what is needed, and to pay it forward when one’s circumstances improve.
  • Holiday Festival & Indoor Yard Sale – This is a well-loved activity in our nearby community and is usually held on a Saturday in mid-November. Outside vendors such as Mary Kay, Thirty-One Gifts, Scentsy, etc., set up their wares, and separate areas are organized for holiday decorations, books, and media. In addition, the popular indoor yard sale offers economically-priced items that are donated by the parish and their friends. Monies earned go towards St. Mark’s ministries, and any items left over get donated to charity.