Social Ministry @ St. Mark’s

The Social Ministry Committee is a standing committee of the congregational council whose primary task is inform congregational members about social ministry issues and promote congregational involvement in the pursuit of social justice and stewardship of God’s creation.

Current Special Project

Reconciliation with First Nations has been adopted as the primary focus of the committee’s work in 2022/23. Two initial workshops were held in February and March, 2022 lead by guest presenter, Mr. James Thunder of Reconciliation Thunder. The workshops focused on understanding the need for reconciliation. A follow-up session in May to begin to discern what form a reconciliation emphasis might take within the St. Mark’s community.  You can read more about these workshops and view a list of resource materials by clicking here.

At its October 2022 meeting the congregation council affirmed the importance of a reconciliation emphasis by adopting the following motion:

That St. Mark’s Lutheran Church affirms that reconciliation with Canada’s Indigenous peoples is a priority focus. Mark’s Council encourages Committees and Members to create meaningful and intentional efforts that amplify and put into action commitments made in our Centering for Worship each week.

Ongoing Projects

Christmas Hampers

The committee organizes an annual campaign for the distribution of Christmas hampers to families who could use a helping hand during this season. It also collaborates with the Youth Committee to ensure that gifts and cards are provided to St. Mark’s members who are shut ins.

The Hamper program is funded through special donations from members. The 2022 goal is to raise $3,000 – enough to fill ten hampers. You may help by sending your gifts either by e-transfers or by cheques made out to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Both e-transfers and cheques should be specifically designated for Christmas Hampers, otherwise the donation will go to general offerings.

Members also help by volunteering to shop and pack all food items for one sponsored family or to deliver a hamper.  Confirmation students and their families normally help with deliveries but extra help with this task is always appreciated.  For more information, call the church office and they will direct you to people in the know.

Community Outreach

Social Ministry provides oversight for two community outreach projects of our congregation: our community garden located on the south side of the church building and the Urban Meals program.  You can read more about these programs here.