Community Life at St. Mark's
St. Mark's is an active community engaged in both external ministries (see Service page) and extensive internal ministries. As a Christian community, we engage in group study that seeks to provide us with a better understanding of our faith. In addition, we have a variety of ministries through which we seek to support each other when ill or in life transitions. We also have community celebrations, such as our patronal festival honoring St. Mark, Music Memorial Sunday and All Souls Day, where we remember the dead through a musical offering, and other celebrations of the comings and goings of our member. Finally, we have a variety of clubs and organizations, such as a Bridge club, where people just enjoy each other's company. We describe a few of these activities below.
Adult Formation (or Adult Education): Sunday Forums
On most Sundays, following the 10 a.m. service, we hold forums that explore topics related to our faith or matters of general interest. Last year's forum topics varied widely, from "Christianity Under Scrutiny" to "Fall Prevention in the Home." Most popular was "Generous Love," a series in which representives of various faiths shared their beliefs about religious tolerance. The Sunday Forums are posted on our on-line calendar and information is also e-mailed to parishioners through our weekly bulletin, the Lion Cub. Call the office 510-848-5107 for more details.
Christian Education: Inquirers' Classes
Inquirers' classes are run by the minister and offer a very good way to find out more about the Episcopal Church and its religious tradition. The classes are a good way to make new friends and have great discussions concerning the faith. They offer a great way for you to explore whether you wish to make a formal commitment to the Episcopal Church. Inquirers's classes start severl times a year and are scheduled according to participants' availability. Call the office 510-848-5107 for more details.
Social Organizations: The Bridge Club
The Bridge Club meets in Hodgkin Hall on most Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. (check on-line calendar at St. Mark’s web site for specific schedule). The group plays a thirty-year-old version of Goren called “noontime bridge.” As soon as four players arrive the game starts, and we add more tables of players as needed. We bring our own snacks. It’s all informal and the idea is to enjoy the game. Some players are very good and others are learning. It’s exciting to see the renewed interest in this great game. The emphasis is on a good time. Call the office 510-848-5107 for more details.
Social Organizations: Chick Flicks
The title says it all. A dozen regularly meet (usually on the second Friday of the month) for meal and a movie. Contact St. Mark's office to find out about the next outing. Call the office 510-848-5107 for more details.