The Gospel reading for the 13th Sunday after Pentecost, Luke 12, 49-56, cites fire, water, and division. Fire signifies warmth and gathering; Jesus laments that he wishes the fire “was already kindled” on earth, that his people were already a community of God. Jesus speaking about water reminds us that in baptism, the spirit washes…
A Place of Grace
Worship (Page 44)
Arthur Wesley K became the newest kid in our St. Mark family on 7/24/16. Wearing a beautiful family baptismal gown, Arthur was presented for the sacrament of Holy Baptism by his parents, Joe and Rachel K, and sponsors Brock and Bethany C. Our Father has called Arthur by name, and he is forever a “blessed…
In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus lovingly answers Martha’s concern about her sister Mary. We too have concerns especially after a week or so of truly troubling news. In our county, there have been shootings, killings, the deaths in Nice, France and the political unrest in Turkey. What is going on? Is this violence happening more or…
On 10/18/15, the congregation welcomed Sage W into our St. Mark family through the sacrament of baptism and by singing member Trudy H’s song, “A New Kid in Our Family”. Sage is the daughter of members Lara and Dan W, and sister of Cascade, who had previously been baptized into our family. Lara’ father, a retired Lutheran Pastor,…
In today’s Children’s Time, Pastor Beth asked the kids to help her make up a packing list for her trip to a family reunion this summer. Diamonds, boots, swim suit and snacks were among the things suggested. Pastor prompted the kids to think about that in addition to all the “stuff” we pack on a trip, we need…
The 6th Sunday after Pentecost’s gospel, Luke 9:51-62, speaks of Jesus being committed to his mission in Jerusalem. Of setting his face to Jerusalem. Of being focused on that path. Pastor Eric, having just completed, the day before, a fifty mile walk from Aberdeen to Olympia to raise money for our Clean Kids project, spoke…
Long-time congregation member, Trudy H wrote a song which has been incorporated into our St. Mark baptismal services called “A New Kid in Our Family”. On Sunday, June 19, we sang the song once again as we welcomed Michael K into our St. Mark family. Pastor Beth reminded us that in the waters of Holy…
Today’s service was all about gratitude! One of our life-long St. Mark kids, Zoe C, just graduated from high school and wanted to show her gratitude to her St. Mark family for all their support and love throughout her life among us. Zoe worked along with Pastors Beth & Eric to plan the service. Being a musician, Zoe…
Today’s Gospel is the seventh chapter of Luke speaking of forgiveness. Pastor Eric defined the text word ‘forgiveness’ as a release of a burden which can lead to freedom. There are three things involved in forgiveness: 1. It is intimate for all people. 2. It is possible for all people. 3. It is available for…
On this Day of Pentecost, we celebrated Confirmation Sunday at our 11:00 service. As we give thanks for the gift of the Holy Spirit, we also give thanks for the gifts of faith and baptism. After instruction about faith, God, Jesus, the Bible, and the church, three 8th graders — Isaiah U., Kaitlyn B., and Samantha…