A St. Mark's Story: Love is Our Tradition
Posted on by S.E.
Over and over again in recent months the phrase love is our tradition has been affirmed in my life. While standing in the chancel with my dearest McKenna as Father David officiated our marriage vows. In that still quiet holy space, our shared love and God’s love was felt all around us.
Gathering in the sacristy on a Saturday morning with other altar guild members. As we clean the chancel, polish the silver and brass, arrange the flowers and prepare the altar for the next day’s worship, baptisms, confirmations, weddings or funerals. Such simple repetitive tasks allow a quiet still reflective meditation to occur within, a nurturing from God.
Singing in the choir, learning our music and offering our talents to God.
These are just a few images of my experiences at St. Mk’s. There are countless others. Since being invited by a friend, I first walked into the narthex over thirty years ago. Being allowed to participate with others on the vestry, property, capital improvement campaign, worship ministry, bible study, foyer groups, ministry council, outreach projects, confirmation and new members mentor. All humbling and rewarding.
I’ve always been amazed, uplifted, challenged and affirmed:
That wherever you are in your faith journey, St Mark’s welcomes you to join the pilgrimage and we’ll all walk together. Maybe at different speeds, with detours and paths both rocky and smooth, but always within sight of one another. Each offering a helping hand. That the Spirit of Christ may manifest in us.
At the opportunities of service and example of those who give unceasingly. Those who encourage and mentor others to find their niche. That we may be Christ’s hands and feet in the world.
At the kindness, forbearance and support given when others experience hardships, challenges, doubts, fears and loss. That we may be Christ’s embrace of compassion and understanding. That we tend and feed His flock.
By the joy, silliness, wit and humor of our members. That God’s work can be fun. Specific examples are so numerous, they will have to be shared another time. Laughter such a marvelous gift from God.
The friend who invited me to St Mark’s all those years ago also invited Frosty Owen. We both were welcomed with open arms by the parish and encouraged immediately to take part.
My prayer is that everyone experiences that same welcome. Grows in the Christian Faith. Embraces the Episcopal Church as home. Attends worship regularly. Is fed by the hearing of the Word and the receiving of the Sacraments. Develops a daily prayer life and regular study of the scriptures. Joins in ministry. Tries different things, finds their niche in service and is faithful.
Truly love is at the center of St Mk’s and is our tradition for almost 150 years – Hallelujah!
Thanks Be to God.