What Do We Mean by Missions

 “What we are called to do through the active use of our time, talent and treasure to serve those beyond
our St. Mark congregation who need our help.” (St Mark definition) 

At St. Mark the mission work focuses on local missions, climaxing in the ABC Sale to raise funds in the summer, and the international missions, culminating in the Christmas Alternatives giving in the winter.

 • Who is served by the ABC Sale? Hunger Missions: Circle of Concern, Isaiah 58, Peace Meal; Disability services: Lafayette Industries; Outdoor Ministry: Mound Ridge; College missions: Ukirk; and Presbyterian Children’s Home and Services. These are our primary local missions. 

• Who is served by Christmas Alternatives? Well-drilling: Marion Medical Mission; Nursing scholarships: Medical Benevolence Foundation in Malawi, DR Congo and Haiti; Life-saver clinics: DR Congo, Malawi, Kenya & Haiti; PCUSA Mission Co-workers: Rev. Jed and Jenny Koball, Peru, Chenoa Stock, Peru; Education Scholarship Partnerships w/ Presbytery: Nicaragua and Kenya. Small Farmer aid: Equal Exchange Program through food and coffee sales. 

These are our primary international missions. Our Focus on missions this year will come from a monthly request for donations for one local and one international mission. 

On the third Sunday the Committee will share a mission moment or activity around Sunday worship. On February 27 we will have the annual Discovery Sunday to personally share the needs of local missions we serve. By spreading the services of the Mission Committee from month to month, hopefully the Committee will keep the congregation attentive to Mission without an overwhelming flood of mission requests for help. The mission field is broad, but our service is focused and personal. 

For the Missions Committee: Bill Tucker