Living Into Our Mission

by Fr. Ed Cardoza - ​Last Sunday, as I was closing up the church, I noticed a group gathering in our common room. They were discussing youth and family formation -- I couldn't be more pleased or proud.  First, I am excited that we are going to be trying out new things in the fall to be supportive to our families.  Second, this group represents a renewed energy and focus among the parish to deepen our commitment to live into the mission, vision and values that we approved a couple of years ago to bring both stability and growth to St. Mark's...

I am so grateful to the various groups that have brought us a new database, a new website, improved streaming, revitalized offices and gathering spaces, new memorial garden landscaping plans, a plan for a regathering  and the list goes on and on.  If you haven't looked at our website lately -- please check it out at stmarksfx.org.  If you are on Facebook -- but haven't liked our community page -- please do so. And by all means -- if you have thought about getting more deeply involved in the parish -- this would be an excellent moment to do so.  Every week there is some chance to help out the parish -- so be on the lookout for such opportunities here online, in the weekly bulletin, and reach out to the contact group for that ministry or activity. 

In closing, a number of you are asking about the impact of the rise in COVID cases and hospitalizations, and I wanted to affirm a few of things. 

• Masks cut down on transmission.  I will be wearing a mask again beginning on Sunday.  Until we have directives from our re-gathering committee and diocese, I encourage you to wear a mask as well, even if you are vaccinated.
• We will continue to ventilate the sanctuary--including opening all windows and circulating air through the use of fans -- and I encourage spreading out in the space by using the side seating.  This might be the perfect time to sit in a new spot with a new view. 
• The sign of peace will be passed by bow or wave. 
• It may make sense for some of our parishioners to solely or primarily connect with St. Mark's via the live stream -- this is a valid way of celebrating and honoring Sunday.  Do what you need to do to make yourself safe and comfortable -- you have my blessing and support.  If you desire to receive the Eucharist in person -- I am happy to make arrangements for you to receive communion either by picking up consecrated bread or by receiving outside after the service. 
• Vaccinations save lives.  If you haven't gotten one, please pray on it. 

With peace, 
Fr. Ed