Connections Ministry

Saint Mark seeks to be an open and inclusive community of Christian faith pursuing the love of God and neighbor, while honoring the gifts of all people. We welcome persons of every race, class, marital status, ability or sexual orientation, who seek to grow more deeply in their relationship with God and serve others in the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, or if you are not even sure what a spiritual journey is about, you are welcome here.

Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. – Hebrews 13:1-2

Hospitality as a Spiritual Practice

True hospitality is not just about fellowship, although fellowship is certainly one aspect of it. True hospitality means welcoming everyone, just as Jesus did with his followers, and especially the stranger who arrives among us. We believe that being open to new ideas and ways of doing things, and of being supportive of one another as we move along our faith journeys are also examples of hospitality! At Saint Mark we work to provide opportunities for people to practice true hospitality, which is vital to the Christian life. We also want our facilities to be places of welcome for all people, seven days a week, which is why we host a variety of community organizations, concerts hosted by the Institute for Musical Traditions and several 12 step and support group meetings.

Some of the activities of the Connections Ministry include:

    • Visitor reception and distribution of visitor information
    • New members classes and inquirers’ luncheon
    • Special events such as lunch with the Elders and Deacons
    • Monitoring our facilities from the perspective of visitors and ensuring accessibility for all — we seek to provide safe, clean, and modern spaces and facilities
    • Community outreach beyond the walls of our buildings
    • Postcards, emailings, and advertisements for our many wonderful activities and holiday events

Hosting lectures, concerts and other special programs

  • Becoming Disciples

 

Ah… and how do we become disciples of Jesus Christ, you may ask? You might be thinking that being a disciple is the same thing as being a Christian, but the idea of discipleship goes beyond what most people think of as being a Christian. We become Christians the moment that we place our faith in Jesus Christ. We cross from death to life and become a new creation. However, that is just the start, the very beginning. Paul encourages us “not to be conformed to this world,” but “to be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). In order for us to take on the character of Jesus Christ, we must renew our minds. So how do we do that?

Still have questions? Yes, we do too! It is a challenge to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. So join us for worship… and discussion… and fellowship. Know that your thoughts and questions are valid. And know that we all share our journeys at Saint Mark as we discover just what living as a disciple today means.

Discipleship

Saint Mark Presbyterian Church

10701 Old Georgetown Road
North Bethesda, MD 20852
301-530-0600 | Map