All are invited to St. Mark’s first annual Worship Retreat on Saturday, August 28, from 9 a.m. to1 p.m. in the chapel and sanctuary. We’ll explore the dimensions of worship in the reformed tradition, including order of worship, liturgy, music, visual arts, special seasons in the church calendar and the sacraments. We’ll even get a head start on planning for Advent. Spiritual and physical sustenance will be provided (in other words, lunch will be served). Questions? Contact Rev. Gusti Newquist (325-1001) or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or Becky Cook (325-7121 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

The truth is, we’re still in the process of figuring that out, but under the leadership of Rev. Gusti Newquist and former moderator of WMS, Chris Wald-Hopkins, we began a transition from a task-oriented committee into a collaborative team that works closely with the pastors and music director to imagine worship and spiritual life as an engaging, life-giving and soul nourishing experience. Recognizing the importance of engaging all the senses in worship, a sanctuary arts team was formed. Lead by the resourceful and multi-talented Gwyn Roske, individuals with artistic gifts (or at least a willingness to climb tall ladders!) came together and transformed our sanctuary space to reflect themes for Advent, Epiphany, Lent and Easter. Adding more visual elements has not gone unnoticed – many of you have expressed gratitude for how these enhancements have deepened and enriched your worship experience.

The Worship and Spiritual Life Ministry Team continues to explore what it means to worship God with mind, body and spirit. We’ll be visiting a few sister churches experimenting with “new” (some of which are actually ancient) ways to worship and nurture the spiritual life of their communities. We’ll read together, pray together, and encourage sparks of creativity inspired by the Spirit. If you would like to be a part of this work in progress, you are warmly invited to join us. We will be moving away from a regular monthly schedule and meet at different times to facilitate participation for a wider group of people, so if you send your email, snail-mail address or phone number to either me or the church office we’ll make sure you’re included in the Worship & Spiritual Life Team communication loop. We would be blessed to have your input and perspective!

Becky Cook at 979-1537 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it