Family

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

Opening the Doors of Christ’s Love

For Families and Youth

Our doors are open to families in various ways. We strive to show God’s love to all members of our community,

from the youngest to the oldest. One way we show God’s love is through worship:

· Children are allowed to be themselves in church. At St. Mark’s they learn that they have a place in God’s loving embrace.

· Throughout the school year we offer Children’s Chapel every Sunday. During this time our youngest children hear the

assigned scripture readings and reflect on those teachings by participating in activities and discussions. This is led by a

clergy member or seminarian.

· Our Middle School and High School youth spend this time exploring what it means to be a Christian and how to live their

faith every day.

· All youth return to the Sanctuary at the Offertory and join the St. Mark’s family at the community table for Holy Eucharist.

· Families are encouraged to sit in the front where children can see everything that’s going on at the altar.

· We encourage parents to review the bulletin with their children so that the children know what to expect.

· As children learn to read, we encourage them to follow along in the hymnal and the prayer book. Gradually the words will

become familiar and form the basis from which the child will be able to articulate their own beliefs.

· We encourage families to discuss what they hear. What is striking? How did the message in Children’s Chapel differ from

the sermon?

· Older children are encouraged to participate in worship as acolytes and readers.

· Children’s bulletins and crayons are provided for young children, and can be found in the back of the sanctuary.

· If desired, childcare for infants and toddlers is available.

We also show God’s love through family and youth activities:

· Every year the youth from St. Mark’s travel on a mission trip to build relationships with others and to share Christ’s love.

· We strive for regular social events that are fun and build community.

· We plan to offer regular outreach opportunities for our youth, whether that be making meals for a local shelter, walking for

the homeless, or volunteering with various community organizations.

· Children participate in the Children’s Christmas Service and Pageant on Christmas Eve.

· St. Mark’s in the Park, our annual parish picnic, is held in the late spring.

· Vacation Bible School is offered in the summer.

· Girls ages 7 and up may join the Junior Daughters of the King, a national group dedicated to prayer, service, and

evangelism.

Families are an integral part of the St. Mark’s community. Together we learn that Christ loves us all.