Day 36, Growing Together in Faith: The Youth Lounge at St. Mark – Pastor MP
"...for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs" (Matthew 19:14b.)
At St. Mark, the Youth Lounge is more than just a room, it is a place where young lives are shaped in body, spirit, and faith. Every week, laughter fills the space as friendships form over games and conversations. Lessons of faith are lived out in real time, through the sharing of a meal, the joy of a spontaneous karaoke concert, or in quiet moments of sharing and prayer.
This special space is where young people learn what it means to belong. Here, they are welcomed just as they are, with their questions, struggles, and hopes. They experience the love of Christ not just in words, but in the kindness of a mentor, the encouragement of a friend, and the joy of a community that truly cares.
“Fun, Food, Fellowship, and Faith” isn’t just a slogan; it’s the heartbeat of our youth ministry. Each week, laughter and learning go hand in hand. Through Bible study and group discussions, through mission trips and silly games, our youth grow into the people God is calling them to be. They are not just the future of the church, they are the church now, bringing energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives that enrich our entire congregation.
Our church is about more than bricks and furniture; it is about investing in a place where seeds of faith are planted and begin to grow. The Youth Lounge is a space where young people learn to love God and to love their neighbors.
Our support and presence is vital in helping to shape generations of young people that will continue to gather, grow, and experience the transforming love of Christ at St. Mark.
“Lord, bless the young hearts who gather in our Youth Lounge. May this space continue to be a place of joy, growth, and deepening faith. Amen.”
Day 37, A Fixing Faith – Pastor Dave
“Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters” (Colossians 3:23, NRSV.)
It’s been said it takes a village to raise a child, but it also takes a lot of volunteers to keep a church facility running. Most people are not here throughout the week, and they don’t see folks painting doors, caulking sinks, changing lights, planting flowers, moving tables, and so much more. We are blessed with many willing helpers around St. Mark. The work is done behind the scenes, but the results are enjoyed by the whole congregation.
We know we are saved by grace though faith, and our works will not bring about our salvation. We cannot do something to make God love us more or less. God’s love always comes first. It is because of this great agape love that we are free to respond in faith. These works are pleasing to God because they are done out of appreciation and not obligation. As our facility ages, I am especially thankful for all those who labor to bless its form and its function. There are many ways to give back to St. Mark that don’t involve money. I pray we will all have eyes to see where our unique gifts match the church’s needs.
“Creator God, you formed the world out of nothing and charged humans to be good stewards of your creation. Strengthen us to build, to mend, to fix, and to beautify this wonderful gift. It is in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”
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