Community Engagement
Open Minds, Open Hearts, Open Doors
Our faith calls us to actively engage with our community by building relationships, serving others, and creating opportunities that enrich lives. We are committed to making a positive impact beyond our church walls through programs that support youth, promote education, encourage civic engagement, celebrate cultural diversity, and strengthen our neighborhoods.
Whether developing future leaders, preparing students for college, advocating for justice and inclusion, or partnering with organizations that serve our community, St. Mark is dedicated to sharing God's love through meaningful action. We invite you to learn more about our Community Engagement ministries and the many ways we are making a difference together.
Food Pantry
The Food Pantry provides food assistance to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Through the generosity of our congregation, community partners, and volunteers, we help ensure that our neighbors have access to nutritious food while treating every person with dignity, respect, and kindness.
Boy Scouts Troup 534 "Hey"
Founded in 1919, Troop 534 has a proud tradition of developing young men of character, integrity, and leadership. Serving youth ages 11–18, the troop provides opportunities for personal growth through camping, hiking, fishing, outdoor adventures, leadership development, community service projects, and lifelong friendships.
Troop 534 has proudly produced 89 Eagle Scouts, Scouting's highest rank—a testament to its century-long commitment to preparing young people for lives of service and leadership. Through hands-on experiences and mentorship, Scouts learn valuable life skills while embracing the principles of citizenship, responsibility, and service to others.
The Boy Scouts meet Mondays at 7:00 PM
Religion & Race
The Religion & Race Ministry is committed to fostering understanding and equity by promoting meaningful conversations about faith, race, and culture. Guided by the values of justice, inclusion, and Christian love, the ministry works to equip individuals and congregations to embrace diversity, challenge racism, and build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Through educational workshops, cultural experiences, advocacy, and community dialogue—including programs such as ancestry workshops and African head wrapping demonstrations—the ministry encourages greater cultural awareness and appreciation. It also supports the full participation of people of every race and ethnicity in the life and mission of the church while helping build bridges of understanding across our diverse community.
The United Methodist Church has established a General Commission on Religion and Race to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Higher Education
The Higher Education Ministry encourages and supports students as they prepare for college and throughout their educational journey. The ministry provides valuable resources on college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and educational opportunities, helping students and families navigate the college planning process with confidence.
Through college fairs, informational workshops, scholarship resources, and support for the church's annual scholarship program, the ministry invests in the success of our students. Even after students leave for college, the ministry stays connected, offering encouragement, celebrating achievements, and reminding them that their church family continues to support them every step of the way.
Credit Union
Incorporated in January 1955, the St. Mark Credit Union is one of the first credit unions established by an African American church. For more than seven decades, it has reflected St. Mark's commitment to financial empowerment, helping individuals and families build financial security through trusted, member-focused financial services.
Whether you're opening your first savings account, managing your everyday banking needs, or seeking an affordable loan, the Credit Union is here to help you reach your financial goals.
As a member-owned financial cooperative, the Credit Union is dedicated to serving its members with personalized service, competitive financial products, and sound financial guidance. We invite you to become a member, open an account, and discover how the St. Mark Credit Union can support your journey toward greater financial security and success.
The Credit Union is open Wednesdays 10:00 AM-02:00 PM and Sundays 09:00 AM-12:30 PM