Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for Communion?

This sacrament spiritually strengthens those who receive it in faith. Examine yourself before coming forward. Maybe you need to forgive someone, or ask to be forgiven. Maybe you will wish to talk with a priest or receive prayer afterwards from one of our prayer teams in the back of the church. Holy Scripture reassures us that God’s forgiveness is abundantly granted to all who ask for it (1 John 1:9). Receive Communion with joy and thanksgiving.

Why do some people go to the back of the church after receiving communion?

After receiving, you may return to your seat to pray or you may receive prayer for healing—emotional, spiritual or physical—from our trained prayer ministers in the back of the church.

What about the collection plate?

If you are a visitor, feel free to let the plate pass you by. Offerings are voluntary, given in gratitude and love by those who have decided to make St. Mark’s their home.

What are the page references in your worship bulletin to BCP and Hymnal?

BCP stands for Book of Common Prayer. It is the red book in your pews. The Book of Common Prayer is the basis for our worship. The blue book is the hymnal. It organizes the hymns by number. Those with an “S” before them are found in the front of the hymnal.

Why do people cross themselves and bow during the service?

Some people will bow as the cross is processed or will bow or cross themselves when the name of Jesus Christ is mentioned. This is an optional act of reverence. You may choose to follow suit or not. It’s up to you.

Where is the Sunday school?

During the school year, Sunday school for children from preschool through Grade 5 meets at 9:00 below the fellowship hall. Children join the service in the main church at Communion.

Junior high meets in the rectory basement (the big white house opposite the fellowship hall) and senior high meets in the youth room below the chapel. These classes meet from 8:50—10:20 am.

All our Sunday school classes are staffed by caring, trained adults.

Is there a nursery?

Nursery care is available at the 9:00 and the 10:30 services. It is located right next to the kitchen.

Is there coffee hour?

Coffee hour is in the fellowship hall after the 9 and 10:30 services. Come for a donut and a chat.

How can I get to know people?

First step: fill out the Visitor Response card in your Welcome Packet, or in the pews. This will allow you to receive our newsletter and other information to help you plug in. It will also ensure that you receive a personal invitation to special events such as Newcomer Pizzas, Inquirers Classes, musical events, and other parish gatherings.

How do I volunteer for something?

Volunteers are always welcome. See the Get Involved section of our website and, if you have a particular interest, contact the leader listed. We can help you find the right place.

What if I’m not ready to get involved?

No pressure! Come and worship. Take it at your own pace. We value your presence more than your performance. Your spiritual growth in Christ is our primary concern.

What does your church believe?

Our faith centers on the saving death and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ. The basis for our faith is the Bible—both the Old and New Testaments. Although sin has separated us from God, Jesus Christ, through His historical death and resurrection, provides the way back to God. Through the Holy Spirit, He restores us—body, soul, and spirit—partially in this life and fully in the age to come.

What if I’m not sure what I believe?

That’s fine. We welcome those with doubts and questions. We offer several opportunities to explore them. Our Alpha Course provides a comfortable, low-key setting to join others who are grappling with issues of faith.

Can I talk with clergy staff?

Absolutely! Call the office to make an appointment with Fr. Mark, ext. 11, or Pastor Claudia, ext. 19.

I’m from another denomination. May I receive Communion here?

Yes! All baptized Christians who know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior are welcome to join us at the Communion table.

How do I take Communion?

Kneel at the altar and hold out your hands, palms up, one hand over the other. The bread will be placed in your hand. After the minister says “Body of Christ,” you respond “Amen.” If you wish, you may eat the bread and then drink from the cup. Some people choose to dip the bread into the wine; this is called intinction. The most sanitary way to use the chalice is to drink from it. Guide the chalice to your lips with one or both hands. This helps prevent spilling. After the minister says “The cup of salvation,” respond “Amen.”

What if I don’t drink wine?

If you would rather not drink wine, cross your hands across your chest after you have received the bread.

May my children take Communion?

Baptized children of any age are welcome to receive. Please assist young children in drinking from the chalice. Our Sunday school program provides First Holy Communion as a way of educating second graders. If you would like your children to receive a blessing rather than the bread and wine, have them cross their arms over their chests.

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