St. Mark’s is a growing Lead Pastor’s Report...................................................................

2
Christian community Associate Pastor’s Report ........................................................... 3
Council President’s Report ......................................................... 4
rooted in tradition and Treasurer’s Report ...................................................................... 5
open to new
expressions. Responding Staff Reports
to God’s compassionate Interim Choir Director and Organist ........................................... 6
Director of Church Administration & Operations....................... 6
love, we reach out in
service to the Parish Life Committee Reports
community and the Discipling & Outreach ................................................................. 8
Education—Adult Forum ............................................................ 8
world. With openness of Education—Sunday School ......................................................... 9
heart and spirit, we Hospitality ................................................................................... 9
welcome all. Property .................................................................................... 10
Social Ministry .......................................................................... 11
Worship .................................................................................... 11
Stewardship .............................................................................. 12
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
1111 O’Farrell Street Other Reports
San Francisco, CA 94109 Martin Luther Tower ................................................................ 13
(415) 928-7770
(415) 928-8534 fax
Human Resources ..................................................................... 14
www.stmarks-sf.org Mutual Ministry ........................................................................ 15
A “Reconciling in Christ Congregation” Women of the ELCA (WELCA) ................................................... 15
Statistical Summary .................................................................. 16
 Lead Pastor

This past year I celebrated 20 years of ordained ministry and

completed my 11th year of ministry at St. Mark’s. I feel honored
and humbled to serve with you as we live out our baptismal
calling as God’s people in this community of faith. St. Mark’s
continues to be a challenging, joyful, and energizing place to do
ministry. The reports that follow are evidence of our thriving community. I am very grateful
for our partnership together and for those members and leaders who have faithfully shared
their gifts of time, talents, and resources in order for St. Mark’s ministries to grow. Your
consistent witness to the gospel while dealing with unexpected challenges and changes has
been inspirational to me. Thank you.

year worship regularly at this service. It is a delight to see so

I had the opportunity to attend an E.L.C.A. event for Clergy
Head of Staff at the beginning of the year. That conference
helped focus my vision for ministry and how to best utilize
my gifts as your Lead Pastor. The learning from this
conference became invaluable as the year progressed and I
continue to go back and review the resources that were
shared with me. I am looking forward to attending the
second half of the Head of Staff conference in early 2009.
I was able to attend two wonderful Catechumenate training
events and have immersed myself into this ministry along
with Pr. Jennert and several lay leaders. I believe this
ministry can shape our life together at St. Mark’s in
significant ways. We are called to “make disciples” and
welcome newcomers to this community of faith. This
ministry gives us a way to do this through worship and
education. I invite anyone who is interested in learning how
to be involved in the Catechumenate to speak to one of the
pastors or any of the laity who are leading this ministry.
many children and babies in the pews along with their
parents.
I want to thank all of our faithful volunteers who live out
their baptism calling by serving at St. Mark’s. The hours of
time so many of you give to ensure that the Sunday School,
youth group, Senior Center, homeless shelter, coffee hour,
special events, education, Junior Choir and Adult Choir,
Martin Luther Tower, catechumenate, and retreats (the list
goes on) is a powerful witness to your deep faith and
commitment to St. Mark’s. I want to thank our Church
Council and the Martin Luther Tower board for the many
hours you contribute to St. Mark’s ministries. I am
extremely thankful to our staff that supports all of our
ministries and enable each of you to do what you do here at
St. Mark’s. It is a privilege to work with Pastor Christian,
Jun, Ann, Cheryl, Tina, David, Stacy, Duc, Carl, Elvira, and
Johanna – I could not ask for a finer staff to work with and
value their contributions, insights, and collaborative spirit.

In March, we hosted over 60 E.L.C.A. bishops and Presiding I look forward to this next year including the changes,
Bishop, Mark Hanson for worship and a luncheon. After challenges and opportunities to serve Jesus Christ with you
experiencing worship and hospitality with us, several in this urban setting. My faith has been deepened this past
bishops said that if they could join any congregation of their year and my desire to serve with you has been
choosing, it would be St. Mark’s. On the same Sunday, we strengthened. For this, I am thankful.
welcomed David Auerbach as our Interim Organist and Choir
Director. David jumped into this interim position with With gratitude,
poise, good humor, and sensitivity. He has brought new Pastor Elizabeth Ekdale
gifts, energy and vision to our worship life. Our Christmas
services, the Advent Lessons and Carol service and the
Epiphany service featuring, “Amahl and the Night Visitors”
are a few examples of his fine contributions. He has also
partnered with an active worship committee which has
taken the lead in planning many of our worship services.

Our 9:00 worship service is thriving under the musical

leadership of Stacy Cullison and Joleen Jessen. Their gifts
have infused new life and energy into this service. Many of
our new families who have come to St. Mark’s in the past

2
Associate Pastor
2008 was an interesting year for me to say the least—I gained
insights into our community, learned about systems theory and
came to appreciate the collective wisdom of our wonderful
leaders and community, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus, even
while dealing with complex issues. My respect and appreciation
goes to all who have shown courage and calm in
this past year. Together as a team of staff, clergy making disciples. A training workshop was offered by our
synod in Sacramento in October and it was a joy to participate
and lay leaders we have and will shine with the in it with the other leaders from St. Mark’s and our synod.
light of Christ in our church and community. The Catechumenate is such a meaningful way for making
I realize that I am completing my “first five” at St. Mark’s. I was called disciples. It is a journey that involves those inquiring about
to be the Associate Pastor at the Annual Meeting in 2004, ordained the church desiring to become baptized and/or new members
in our congregation. I have written things about the
on Transfiguration Sunday February 22, 2004 and held my first Catechumenate before and I refer you to my reflection from
service as an ordained pastor on Ash Wednesday of that year. the last year’s AR. Keep in mind that the Catechumenate is
Reflecting back on five years of parish ministry with and intentionally a *lay* led process. A great team of leaders is in
among you, it has truly been an exciting time. I have learned a place to make the Catechumenate a reality in our
lot at St. Mark’s in this time—things important to parish congregation. This is exciting news!
ministry that no seminary education will ever teach you. I
pray to continue to learn here, as lifelong learning is an Lastly, in November I found myself back in St. Paul, Minnesota
intentional part of my ministry and growth. One thing that I were I took a one-week course on leadership development
have observed for myself is that I feel I have accomplished my called “Thriving as an Associate Pastor”. It was a good
time of “apprenticeship”—coming more into my own as a seminar that I wished I had attended sooner in my career as
pastor in general and the Associate Pastor at St. Mark’s in (associate) pastor. I learned not only about myself and how I
particular. This excites me for the year ahead even more! I operate as an individual and in a team setting; I also learned
have asked the church council to bring me up to full time vs. about self-care, communication, boundaries and work habits
my previous 85% of full time. This is budget permitting, as well as how to be the best associate pastor I can be—one
naturally. I will say that I am excited about this development, of my most important objectives.
because I feel that I can fully step up to my potential as
associate pastor at St. Mark’s, as a team partner to Pastor I hope to apply much of this in the New Year in my role as a
Ekdale, my mentor, colleague and supervisor, as a integral member of a strong pastoral team, staff and congregation for
part of a wonderful staff and for the entire congregation. the sake of the One who has called us each by name and
sends us out for the sake of the world.
Looking back, let me share my year with you in three
“highlights” that framed 2008 for me and helped me grow in I am looking forward to 2009. I pray that we will grow deeper
my role as associate pastor, as well as gain new insights for St. in the way of the Gospel, reading the Scriptures together and
Mark’s ministry: making new disciples, young and old, using the
Catechumenate. Together, we can do it with the help of the
The Bible, the Catechumenate and “Thriving as an Holy Spirit.
Associate Pastor”
And the peace of God that passes all human understanding
I was able and blessed to attend three different continuing keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.
education events in 2008. The first one was in January of
2008 in St. Paul, Minnesota (see 2007 AR). I attended the Respectfully submitted,
Midwinter Convocation at Luther Seminary under the topic Pastor Christian Jennert
“The Book of Faith—how Lutherans read the bible.” I learned
about the Book of Faith initiative that the ELCA adopted in
2007 and how Lutherans read the Bible (or ought to read the
bible). It was exciting to spend time in the largest Lutheran
seminary in the country and learn more of the importance of
reading Scriptures “together” in a “Lutheran fashion” in our
congregations. Stay tuned for more on this in 2009.

Secondly, the catechumenate is off to a wonderful start.

Thanks to our great team of lay leaders (Liv, Dean, Jan, Kyle,
Dale, Suzanne and Bob) we continue this ancient way of

3
Council President
Arise, your light has come!
The Spirit’s call obey;
Show forth the glory of your God,
Which shines on you today.
In 2008, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church showed forth the light
of God’s glory through:
Arise, your light has come!
Po w erful p reaching o f the Go sp el
Insp ired teaching in Sunday Scho o l, Co nfirmatio n,
Adult Fo rum, the Catechumenate, Small Gro up s
The servant leadership o f o ur Pasto rs, members o f
Co uncil, chairs o f Parish Life Co mmittees
Flinging w ide the do o r to w elco me all
Bap tizing babies and adults and even mo re babies
Keep ing co mp any w ith the dying and their families
Ho sting the ELCA Bisho p s
Setting the hearts o f Lutheran Co ncerned o n fire
Celebrating same-sex w eddings
Listening, laughing, talking and w riting at o ur
gathering, “Listening to Go d; Listening to Each
Other”
Co mmitting o urselves to a cap ital camp aign that w ill
take us “Fo rw ard In Faith; To gether in Missio n”
Fling wide the prison door;
Proclaim the captive’s liberty,
Good tidings to the poor.
In 2008, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church proclaimed liberty and
good tidings by:
Arise, your light has come!
Knitting fo r the s treets —600 scarves fo r tho se w ho
shiver o n o ur streets
Feeding and sheltering ho meless men
Gathering so cks and to iletries fo r the residents o f
Co rnell Ho use
Sup p o rting o ur missio naries in Zambia and the
Philip p ines
Being a Co venant Church w ith Bread fo r the Wo rld
Celebrating Christmas at Bernal Gatew ay
Sp o nso ring Bible Study, lunches, and trip s fo r o ur
neighbo rs at Martin Luther To w er
The mountains burst in song!
4
Rise up like eagles on the wing,
God’s power will make us strong.*
In 2008, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church burst forth in song:
Walking in the light of God, we have come through a year
punctuated by change. Change is always difficult for us, but
On Sunday mo rnings and Wednesday evenings
To gether w ith o ur Adult and Children’s Cho irs and
p re-scho o l children (in Sp anish!)
With o rgan and p iano and trump et and tro mbo ne and
flute and o bo e and guitar and vio lin and harp sicho rd
At the first (ho p efully annual) Advent Lesso ns and
Caro ls service w ith the surging no tes o f V ivaldi’s
magnificent Glo ria p erfo rmed by o ur cho ir and
musicians
And, trusted in Go d’s p o w er to keep us stro ng
our faith tells us that within change glows the light of Christ
that is our hope.
I offer my sincere thanks to each and every member and
friend of this congregation for your partnership in ministry
during 2008, especially to members of the Congregational
Council for a year of extraordinary dedication to the well
being of the Body of Christ. To each member and friend of
this congregation who reflected the light of God by feeding
the hungry, wrestling with Scripture, raising your voice in
prayer and in song, pledging your monetary support, caring
for our children, washing a chalice, serving on a committee,
attending a funeral, greeting a guest, wiping a tear, folding a
bulletin, chatting with a Bishop, dusting a pew, answering a
phone, lighting a candle, thank you. To the office staff and
volunteers, we could not even turn on the lights without
you. To the Pastors, who continue to point us toward the
light of the Epiphany, our deepest gratitude.
Respectfully submitted,
Margaret R. McLean, Council President
* ELW, Hymn # 314, verses 1, 2, and 4, used by the permission of
Augsburg Fortress, licenses #9982S and #2622L
Treasurer
2008 Operating Results of St. Marks’
St. Marks’ had stronger than expected revenues from every
source except interest income, which was lower than
expected due to a dramatic decline in the rates paid on
available low risk securities. Overall income exceeded our
budget by over $18,000, or approximately 4%. We thank St.
Marks’ members for their strong support and adherence to
their pledges in these difficult times.
Budgeted program and staff expenses were materially
within budget for 2008. St. Marks’ did have unexpected
legal expenses totaling approximately $17,000 related to
our staffing transition.
2007 Operating Results of the Urban Life Center
Overall the ULC experienced a surplus do to strong rental
and parking income. Staff expenses came in materially
within budget and maintenance expenses came in well
under budget as we were fortunate in the costs of basic
utilities and were disciplined in our use of discretionary
services.
Plan to Reduce Debt
As the new capital campaign is finalized we will revisit our
plan to reduce the $1.3mm in debt outstanding to Thrivent.
Based on existing pledges we expect to be able to
comfortably service the debt during the campaign but do
not have visibility into how much we will be able to reduce
the principal amount of that debt.
We also have a note outstanding to Plant for approximately
$200,000. We expect to repay this note within the next six
months in conjunction with MLT.
Key expense assumptions
• Reduced Synod support from 11% of pledges to 10% of
pledges
• 0% COLA – no cost of living adjustment for 2009
• Re-evaluating staffing levels and miscellaneous
discretionary expenses
• Staff reducing multiple discretionary expenses (training,
conferences, misc. expenses)
• Reduced contingency to approximately $5,000 from
preferred $10,000
• ULC utilities and maintenance expenses are expected to
be consistent with 2008 with the exception of a
reduction in the Armada nightly security visits from two
per night to one per night
• Reducing our use of paper
• Reduction in the use of paid musicians for special
worship events
Elevator Fund
As part of the capital campaign we have established an
Elevator Fund. The initial funds raised will help in the design
of the elevator which we expect will be funded in full
subsequent to the completion of the current capital
campaign.
Once again I would like to thank the congregation, Pastors,
staff and Church Council for their continued interest,
guidance, support and friendship. I would particularly like
to recognize Jun Ranches, Director of Church Administration
and Operations; and Cheryl Garcia, St. Marks’ book keeper
for their hard work and diligence.

Trust Fund Respectfully submitted,

At this point we do not anticipate making contributions to Aron Bohlig, Treasurer
replenish the Trust Fund in 2009.

2009 Budgetary Assumptions

2008 was a difficult time, economically, for the United
States and the world at large. Unfortunately St. Marks’
members have not been immune to these issues. We thank
the entire congregation for their continued commitment to
supporting the worship and ministries of St. Marks. These
assumptions are subject to final Council approval and the
finalization of pledges which is expected to occur by the end
of January.

Key revenue assumptions

• We anticipate reduced building use income due to
lower wedding inquiries. We believe that the lowered
inquiries are due to increased economic pressure on
couples seeking to be married
• General pledge numbers are expected to be lower by
approximately 15%
• ULC revenue numbers are expected to be “up” based
on recent monthly building use and parking trends

5
 Interim Choir
Director and
Organist
The music program
at St. Mark’s has
had a remarkable
year. The program has undergone
extensive self evaluation and change. This
continues as the search for a new director
of music gets underway.
In March, David Auerbach was hired as interim music
director and organist, and subsequently engaged on a long
term basis while the search process moves forward. Stacy
Cullison has agreed to direct and prepare the music for the
9 am service, and Liz Benson has taken on directing the
children’s choir.
The program has continued to produce music of the highest
caliber for worship, as well as present a variety of events for
worship and community. Important highlights include:
• A recital by Mr. Auerbach in October;
• Lessons and Carols for Advent in mid- December which
included Vivaldi’s Gloria and Perti’s Magnificat with
orchestra;
• A concert version of Amahl and the Night Visitors to
celebrate the Epiphany in January. (This performance
also traveled to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in
Lafayette.)
There have been other changes and innovations. The grand
piano from the auditorium was moved to the sanctuary to
allow better interaction for the 9 am service and to provide
a much needed piano in the front of the church.
The Lessons and Carols service for Advent is new, and
meant to focus attention on the need for quiet and patient
waiting during Advent. For the first time a choral ensemble
provided special anthems for the 8 pm Lessons and Carols
service on Christmas Eve. The Adult Choir presented a
concert of carols before the 11 pm service sung from the
front of the church.
The Adult Choir has been fortunate to welcome 6 new
members this year, and the Children’s Choir two.
The music program continues to do all in its power to
engage the congregation and to provide musical
opportunities for members. For example there is a rotation
of choir members who sing in small quartets for the psalm,
thus encouraging all members to stretch themselves. The
singers for Amahl, with the exception of the role of the
6
Mother, were all members of the choir.
Plans for 2009 include celebrating the 200th anniversary of
the death of Joseph Haydn with special concerts by the
music program on the weekend of May 29-31. 2009 is also
Mendelssohn’s 200th birthday and the program will also
celebrate with anthems throughout the year.
Sincerely,
David Auerbach, Interim Choir Director and Organist
Director of
Church
Administration
and Operations
As I look back on
2008, I think to
myself, “Where did the time go?” “Time
flies” would be an understatement and
often times I’d find myself wishing for a
“time out.” To say that we live in
challenging times is probably not that
much of a revelation to many folks.
However, to say that I am grateful for these
times, as blurry, busy, and burdensome as
they can be, I think I might raise a few
brows. But I am thankful, for despite all
the crazy busy-ness that was 2008, I
continue to feel and admire the strong
sense of community and God’s love that
pervades St. Mark’s Square.
St. Mark’s Square, which includes St. Mark’s Lutheran
Church, the Urban Life Center (ULC), and Martin Luther
Tower (MLT), continues to serve as a thriving center of
ministry and activity. During the year, the church building
and the ULC faithfully accommodated the ministries of St.
Mark’s as well as those of other churches, non-profit and
community organizations, and performing arts groups.
These various groups not only add to the unique personality
and culture of the Square, but also much needed revenue to
help with operating costs. I am very thankful for the help and support of
the following people:
Martin Luther Tower, an affordable housing apartment
residence for seniors, continues to be an important ministry on Office and Facilities Staff
the Square. With the help of EAH Housing and the wonderful Ann Dayton
staff at MLT, we strive to address the needs of seniors in the Cheryl Garcia
Tower and community. Senior ministries include the “Tuesdays Tina Haner
at 2” Bible study, MLT exercise classes, senior luncheons and Duc Huynh
occasional senior field trips. Carl Storey

Aside from the continued growth in the use of our facilities, we Office Volunteers
continue to make several administrative improvements. If you Monday: Eunice Childs & Geri Bailey
have not yet visited our website lately, then I encourage you to Tuesday: Earline Bryan & Pam Ruh
do so. Please go to www.stmarks-sf.org to view our up-to-date Wednesday: Jacque-Lynne Randich
online calendar, read the latest announcements and newsletter, Thursday: Marge Jencks & Suzanne Smith
download forms, shop our bookstore, make a secure online Friday: Jim Benson
donation, view the latest photos, and so much more. Our
website is a useful resource, which we plan to utilize more and
more as we disseminate important information to help keep
members and the community well-informed on what’s Groups at St. Mark’s Square
happening in and around St. Mark’s.
Music Groups
As technology continues to advance and the Internet brings
American Bach Soloists
people and information closer together, we have seen the need
to adapt, go “green,” and find innovative ways to reach out to Clerestory
folks. We encourage all members to look at Simply Giving, International Orange Choir
which allows contributions to be transferred electronically to the Magnificat
church's account. It is safe and secure and saves paper and Musaic
postage costs. Similarly, look for less paper and cost savings as New Esterhazy Quartet
we streamline our announcements, worship materials, Evangel San Francisco Choral Artists
newsletter and more. San Francisco Early Music Society
Soli Deo Gloria
Of course, a lot of this is possible because of the extraordinary Voices of Music
efforts of St. Mark’s staff and office volunteers. The church
office continues to perform exceptionally well during these busy
times. Producing top-notch publications, scheduling the various Office Tenants
activities on the Square and helping to ensure that operations Bay Area Organizing Committee
continue to run smoothly, the staff of St. Mark’s has become a Benefits Education Center
solid, productive team. I am proud to be counted among these EAH Housing
dedicated and hardworking folks. I am grateful for the Freedom in Christ Church
leadership and support of Pastor Elizabeth and Pastor Christian. Lutheran Care for the Aging
The San Francisco Night Ministry
This year marks the beginning of my fifth year with St. Mark’s. Other private and conservator practices
Sometimes I can’t believe I’ve been here that long. Sometimes it
seems like I’ve been here much longer. I suppose it’s true…
Community Groups
“Time flies when you’re having fun!” Indeed, it has been fun.
With God’s grace, I look forward to more good times together. Alcoholics Anonymous
Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries
Respectfully submitted, First United Lutheran Church
Jun Ranches Interfaith Homeless Shelter
Lutherans Concerned
Narcotics Anonymous
San Francisco Interfaith Council
The Gate Community Church

7
Discipling and Outreach
The 2008 goal of the Discipling and Outreach Team was
that, by the end of the year, everyone in the congregation
would know what the catechumenate is. To that end, there
were adult forums and the first ever Rite of Welcome for
catechumens and affirmers in December. (For anyone who
missed these, the catechumenate is a group of people who,
for a season of time, intentionally choose to journey
together in order to discover and/or renew their faith in
Jesus Christ).
At St. Mark’s, these meetings are called “Journeys in Faith”
and are held most Wednesday evenings after services.
Although the catechumenate is especially for people who
are thinking seriously about receiving baptism, others may
wish to affirm their baptism or simply to “brush up” on
aspects of the Christian faith that they’ve forgotten or
maybe never knew. All are welcome!
The Rite of Welcome on December 7 was a very moving
experience, not only for the participants, but for many in
the congregation as well.
Our thanks to the leaders of the catechumenate gatherings,
co-chairs Liv Beck and Kyle Schiefelbein, Dean Atkinson, Bob
Brouhard, Jan Charter, Dale Loepp, and Suzanne Smith, and
ex officio leaders, Pastors Ekdale and Jennert (this is
primarily a lay-lead process).
Now that we have in place a formal means to welcome
those who have come through St. Mark’s doors and are
considering St. Mark’s as their church home, we will be
focusing on bringing people to those doors and the
welcoming arms of Christ.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Charter, Chair
Education – Adult Forum
The Adult Forum Planning Committee arranges for a variety
of educational events on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. from
September through June. We aim to create an environment
that presents adults with opportunities to grow in a vibrant
relationship with God and God’s creation and to serve and
witness as Christ’s disciples. We have presentations on
8
Scripture, theology and ethics, church activities, social
ministries and other topics relevant to our life and times.
In 2008 our scriptural and theological studies included our
Lenten book study of Passion for Pilgrimage by Alan Jones,
Dean of Grace Cathedral led by Pastors Ekdale and Jennert,
a close reading of poems by 17th century devotional poets,
particularly John Donne and George Herbert, with Dr. Peter
Weltner and “Reflecting on Our Faith”, a TV conversation
between Richard Rodriguez and Bill Moyers. We explored
“Faith and Politics” led by Dr. James Emerson,
“Fundamentalism” with Pastor Jennert and “Advent and
Christmas” with Kyle Schiefelbein and the Catechumenate
Team.
We had the opportunity to learn about “The Brain and the
Dynamic of Forgiveness from Dr. James Emerson and John
Cummings, a Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary intern
with Pace e Bene, led us in exploring how to build a
nonviolent church and community. We had a series on
“Healthy Communication with Healthy Boundaries” with Dr.
Caroline Hollnagel and focused on the Millennium
Development Goals and Mission Investment opportunities
along with new steps for the San Francisco Interfaith
Council.
Reports on activities in our own congregation included a
discussion of “Reconciling in Christ” led by Karl Breice, being
a Safe Congregation by Mary Ritter and Tom Benson showed
us the ties between St. Mark’s and the American Church in
Berlin and its fascinating history. We were introduced to
Katharina Schulze, a Diaconal Minister from Germany who
was with us for a five week internship. We looked at how
we learned to give with Marge Okuley and Greg Jahnke, and
how we can be more “Green” with Margaret Mclean and Art
Michel, and who the Mutual Ministry is and what it does.
We are looking forward to more interesting learning
opportunities in 2009. If anyone has ideas for topics to be
covered or is interested in presenting at a forum, please
contact me or our pastors.
Respectfully submitted,
Suzanne Smith
Education – Sunday School
Sunday School at St. Mark’s is thriving. Over the last year
our numbers have grown, with a good increase in the
number of attending preschool children. On the average
Sunday we have between 12 and 14 kids in attendance.
The “Forward in Faith, Together in Mission” campaign, kept
the kids busy this fall. The older
children made drawings of St.
Mark’s, which we included in the
Prayer Book. All ages created “Folk
Crosses” which were displayed at the
Jewish Museum and in Heritage Hall.
Chapel leaders Susan and Jeff Sall
taught the children one of their
favorite songs in Spanish, which the
children performed at services in
November. This campaign also gave
us an opportunity to learn more
about our sister parish in El Salvador.
For many years, the Sunday School
has supported Cordero de Dios in
Soyapango, El Salvador with our weekly offering from
Children’s Chapel.
Sunday School offers 3 distinct opportunities for children’s
worship:
Children’s Time: during the 9:00 service, children are
gathered together to spend time with their pastors. This
time also highlights the whole congregations love and
support for our children.
Chapel: After Children’s Time and before Sunday School
class, children are gathered in the Urban Life Center. Susan
and Jeff Sall lovingly lead chapel, allowing the children to
participate in worship, sing familiar songs, learn new songs
and give their weekly offering.
Sunday School Class: Every week our three dedicated
teachers prepare age appropriate lessons, using standard
curriculum. This year the preschool class is using Witness
curriculum, which teaches familiar Bible stories to the
younger class. The two older classes use the same
lectionary based curriculum series as last year. Separate,
age appropriate classes allow the teachers to prepare
lessons that specifically focus on a particular age group. We
always include hands-on activities which are created with
each age group in mind.
Sunday School meets at least once a month as a large group.
In January we made stockings for the homeless. This
allowed our youngest children to appreciate the plight of
the homeless and do something to help. Our upcoming large
group activities include:
• The Ritual of Communion taught by Pastor
Elizabeth
• Seder Celebration and our Jewish Heritage taught
by Pastor Christian
9
• Making Valentines for the residents of Martin
Luther Towers
• Reenacting Jesus’ donkey ride into Jerusalem on
Palm Sunday
Confirmation Ministry
We currently have six Junior high students studying Luther's
Small Catechism in preparation for their Affirmation of
Faith. They meet weekly with Pastor
Ekdale for study and also volunteer
in a variety of ways as a way to live
out their faith. They helped lead
worship at the Central Gardens
Nursing Home, fed breakfast to the
homeless, read scripture at the
Advent Lessons and Carol service,
and walked through the Tenderloin
with S.F. Night Minister, Rev. Chuck
Lewis. Four of our confirmation
students will affirm their baptismal
faith on Pentecost, May 31, 2009.
We look forward to new students
joining this ongoing ministry in the
new year.
We continue to use the internet as a means of
communication. If you’re not currently on our e-mail list and
want to be, please let us know.
Respectfully submitted,
Jenny Hart
Hospitality
2008 Hospitality Committee activities began in February
with the Lenten Season. During Lent, soup and salad
dinners were served prior to the Wednesday evening
services. The Lenten Season continued into March.
On March 9th, St. Mark’s hosted a luncheon for the ELCA
Bishops and their guests. The Bishops were attending a
national conference in Burlingame. Two hundred and thirty
attended the luncheon. During the luncheon attendees
enjoyed light jazz music. To accommodate the number of
those attending, the meal was served in both Heritage Hall
and the Auditorium. The weather was beautiful which
enabled conversation and fellowship to spill out into the
plaza and walkways.
March also saw the culmination of the Lenten activities. The
Easter Vigil service was followed by an hors d’oeurves
buffet. The traditional buffet-style Pancake Breakfast was
served on Easter morning.
In July, St. Mark’s hosted a dinner for the attendees of the
Lutheran Concerned/North America (LC/NA) conference,
Heart’s on Fire held at San Francisco State University over
the 4th of July weekend. Again, due to the number of
attendees, the meal was served in both Heritage Hall and
the Auditorium.
September was the beginning of our weekly Wednesday
evening Eucharist service. A light buffet-style dinner is
served prior to the service. St. Mark’s members are asked
to sign up to prepare and serve the meals.
was an especially rewarding project. The landscape,
designed pro bono by landscape architect Stephen Wheeler,
features white flowering camellias, maple trees and ground
cover. The crabapple trees that line the drive on the north
side of the church, selected to remind us of Luther’s famous
statement of hope, “Even though the earth should see its
end tomorrow, I will plant an apple tree,” are now well-
established and were in full bloom during Holy Week last
year.
Many volunteers came to St. Mark’s on Saturday mornings
to complete a number of projects this year:

October 21st was the annual New Member Dinner. The
meal and fellowship was enjoyed by all who attended.
A Fiesta Lunch was held on November 9th. This luncheon
was part of the Forward in Faith activities and in honor of
our sister church in El Salvador. The food was,
appropriately, Salvadoran and attendees enjoyed guitar
music provided by Joleen Jessen. The annual Thanksgiving
Luncheon was held on November 23rd. This year the
luncheon occurred on Commitment Sunday so was part of
the Forward in Faith campaign. This was very successful – a
day of fellowship and good food.
Coffee Hour continues each Sunday. All Coffee Hour Group
Chairs, Co-Chairs and
members are doing
wonderful ministry
providing food for our St.
Mark’s Sunday fellowship.
Your ministry is greatly
appreciated.
• Installing the 2007 time capsule in the building and
mounting a commemorative plaque at the bottom of
the northeast stairway
• Assembling and installing new shelving for the Knitter’s
closet, the choir & organ music and in the Southwest
Storage Room
• Cleaning and polishing to spruce up the building for
festivals
• Painting the balcony floor and organ platform
• Ordering and installing a mirror at the organ console
• Purchasing lights for music stands and choir folders
• Restoring the frames and artwork of the Martin Luther
and Philipp Melanchthon portraits that first hung in our
1862 Union Square church building. The portraits now
hang in the Vestry.
Maintaining the new landscaping and planting azaleas in the

There is a need for

additional Coffee Hour
Chairs. As a Coffee Hour
Chair you are provided a
wonderful opportunity to
work with your St. Mark’s
friends, as well as getting to
know other members. If
you are interested in
becoming a Coffee Hour
Chair, please contact Geri
Bailey or Dean Atkinson.

Respectfully submitted,
Geri Bailey
pots on the east side of the building

I am grateful to the many members that have helped with

Property
With the renovation complete, the Property Committee
focused on special projects during 2008. Adding new
landscaping along the north and east sides of the church
Property-related projects. The group includes: Dean
Atkinson, Alfred Boehl, David, Matthew & Karl Breice, Cal
and Gail Culp, Barbara Engmann, Rodney Gehrke, Rune
Heden, Steven Krefting, Philip Krikau, Marge Jencks,
Margaret McLean, Tom Munn, Mary Ritter, Elise & Peter
Semonian, Sig Sigafoos, Gordon Stevenson, Helen Vaneeva
and Omer Voss (apologies to anyone I’ve failed to
mention!).

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The Committee also oversaw the addition of the exterior
lighting on the west, south and east sides of the building
required by the San Francisco Department of Building
Inspection. With this work complete, our Building Inspector
signed off on our renovation project, closed our building
permit and the City officially removed St. Mark’s from their
list of Unreinforced Masonry Buildings. Hallelujah!
Respectfully submitted by:
Gary Schilling, Property Committee Chairperson
Social Ministry
First, thanks to the congregation for the support of many
projects for the poor and needy in 2008.
Social Ministry looks forward to many ways to minister to
those in need here in San Francisco as well as throughout
the country and around the world in 2009.
We have again hosted 60-70 men at the Interfaith Homeless
Shelter here at St. Mark’s. Thanks to the many of you
who provided breakfasts and suppers as well as monetary
support.
Many St. Mark’s members and friends “Knit for the Streets”,
making over 600 scarves for folks on the streets served by
the San Francisco Night Ministry, the Welcome Ministry,
and our Interfaith Homeless Shelter. Many people will
have colorful scarves around their necks this winter!
We continue to support the activities of the Bay Area
Organizing Committee and Bread for the World as we
advocate for the poor. Many people wrote to their
Congressional representatives in June as legislation
supporting the global poor was considered in the U.S.
Congress.
We continue our supportive relationships with our sister
parish, Cordero de Dios in El Salvador. 5% of the current
Forward in Faith Capital Campaign has been designated
to go to our shared ministry with Cordero de Dios. Watch
for information about that ministry!
We continue our support of Pr. Arden Strasser and his
family in Zambia, and Pr. Noel Ilagan and Connie as they
moved from Cambodia to the Philippines where they are
working with the Lutheran Church in the Philippines.
Locally, we will continue to support our Lutheran Social
Services partners at Bernal Gateway.
Our 2008 Lenten Boxes were money to be sent to our Sister
Parish in El Salvador and to the San Francisco Night
Ministry. Watch for information about the 2009
designation.
We continue our support of higher education at California
Lutheran University at Thousand Oaks, and in doing so
were able to help our own Victoria Krikau, who reported
to us about her experiences at CLU.
We plan to pack and send Midwife Kits to Africa in 2009.
Watch for information about participating in this project.
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Additional plans for 2009
include a community
garden project, and
enhancing the welcome we
extend to all, including the
marginalized.
Thanks to all who help with
this work!
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Ritter
Worship
The task of the Worship Committee is to focus directly on
the manner and details of our corporate worship of our
Triune God. Word and Sacrament, liturgy and music are the
areas of our loving concern. It is an honorable and fearsome
responsibility to think that we can proffer our worship in a
way that is pleasing to God. We appreciate the structure of
the liturgy which keeps our work pointing toward the honor
and glory of God.
This of course, translates directly into committee meetings,
without which churches could not run. The committee has
been meeting regularly since September. Our goal is to be
ahead of ourselves by about six months. We create an
overall theme and plan for a natural segment of the church
year. We then plan each Sunday and Feast Day service,
studying the theme of the season, the readings for the day,
the options available in the ELW and other materials from
the ELCA. Hymns and choir anthems are suggested or
searched for according to the readings and themes. Prayers
of the day are selected; optional elements of the service are
added or removed. A significant effort is made to keep the
service fresh, interesting, thematic, and lively, avoiding dull
and rote matter-of-factness.
Particularly, I would like to thank Richard Boyle, long time
Sacristan, for his continued faithful service. Thanks also to
Kyle Schiefelbein, our other Sacristan, and a doctoral
candidate in liturgics at Pacific Lutheran Theological
Seminary, for his invaluable and in depth knowledge of the
liturgy and the many options that are available to us as we
do our planning.
Also, David Auerbach has been graciously constant in
offering his rich knowledge of the hymns and anthems with
which our worship has been enlivened. We are blessed to
have his considerable input.
Stacy Cullison and Joleen Jessen are responsible for the
music selections of the 9:00 am service. Their work is
uniformly praised by all who come in contact with it.
The Worship committee has also been asked to form the
core of the Worship Assessment Task Force, along with Greg
Jahnke and Diana Gomez. We are currently compiling the
results of the questionnaire which the congregation has
been very responsive in returning. The results of this survey
will be reported to the committee formed to search for a
permanent musical director.
The Worship Committee makes a showing at every Parish
Life night, which generally occurs quarterly. The committee
also meets monthly for detailed planning, has met over a
potluck dinner at least once, and will do so again.
Additional contributing members of the Worship Committee
are Ed Chitty, Sharon Seliga, and Pastor Jennert. Paul Cruce
has recently joined the Worship Committee. He is a
welcome addition. We welcome any member of St. Marks
who wants to participate in the Worship Committee. We
would like more members, especially members who attend
the 9:00 am service.
The Worship Committee solicits any questions, ideas or
concerns that you may have. Please contact any of us.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lautz, Chairperson
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Stewardship Report
“Forward in Faith – Together in Mission”
Core Committee Members: Pr Elizabeth Ekdale, Greg
Jahnke, Bob McPhail, Marge Okuley, Roger Ostrem, Sharon
Seliga
St. Mark’s second capital campaign for the seismic retrofit
began in September, 2008 with the purpose of raising
$750,000 over three years to reduce principal and service
the debt of $1.2 million remaining from the retrofit work.
Parallel to this effort was the stewardship activity of
obtaining congregational pledges to support the 2009
church budget.
As of January 13, 2008, pledges & amounts received are:
Capital Campaign (3-year debt reduction pledges):
105 pledges for $511,945
Current Expenses, 2009:
120 pledges for $321,492
Ten percent of the money raised for debt reduction will be
split between a donation to our sister parish, Cordero de
Dios in Soyapango, El Salvador, and to a newly established
elevator fund for the church.
St. Mark’s hired The James Company, church stewardship
consultants based in the Chicago area, to work with the core
committee and pastoral and lay leadership to organize and
carry out the campaign. John Clark (principal) met with the
committee monthly, and Donna Lund, program
administrator in Chicago, supported the administrative
work.
Campaign events included:
• Kick off Sunday, October 5, 2008 and introduction of the
campaign
• Advance Giving event at the Contemporary Jewish
Museum, October 25, 2008
• Visits to designated members to obtain advance gifts
• Fiesta Sunday, celebrating Cordero de Dios parish, with
Salvadoran food and a report by Liv Beck on her visit to
the parish, November 9, 2008. Packets for the general
membership were distributed on this day.
• Commitment Sunday, November 23, 2008, when
members submitted their pledges and everyone enjoyed a
Thanksgiving feast
• Faith statement booklet containing over 25 statements of
faith from members
• Construction of a banner and a 14-foot folk cross which
hung over the altar
• Drawings by the Sunday School for the faith statement
booklet
• Folk cross artwork by the Sunday School for the Advance
Giving event
• Photographs of members of Cordero de Dios decorating
the sanctuary
• Temple talks during October and November
• Evangel newsletter article
• Phone calls to members by a bank of phone volunteers
Approximately 25 individuals contributed efforts toward the
campaign, and the Sunday School children contributed their
artwork. Additionally, ten people not otherwise involved
contributed to the faith statement booklet.
Efforts now continue to collect pledges from members who
have pledged in the past but have not yet turned in a
commitment. The committee wishes to thank everyone
who contributed so their time, talent and financial
resources to this effort.
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Seliga
Martin Luther Tower
Martin Luther Tower (MLT) is a 121 unit, 13 story apartment
building, located at 1001 Franklin Street that provides
affordable, independent living for seniors. MLT was built in
the 1960’s as a mission of St. Mark’s, and St. Mark’s
continues that mission today in the form of activities,
pastoral care, and corporate oversight. Other services
provided for MLT residents include an on-site social worker
3 days per week; a weekly Bible study; laundry facilities; a
small computer lab; a lounge stocked with DVDs and games;
monthly luncheons and field trips; informational seminars; a
weekly movement class; and a guest suite. About 10% of
MLT’s residents are members of St. Mark’s.
Maximum rents are set by the State of California for 80% of
MLT’s apartments, and the residents in those units have to
annually demonstrate that their incomes are no more than
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60% of San Francisco’s median. Because MLT agreed to
accept these maximum rent restrictions until 2060, MLT
received substantial tax credits that we sold to a syndicate
of tax paying investors, while strengthening our
commitment to affordable senior housing.
The year started in tragic fashion with the January 12
shooting death of Terrell Rogers in our parking lot. Mr.
Rogers had parked his car in the lot so he could watch his
daughter play basketball at Sacred Heart, and his murder,
while apparently pre-meditated, prompted us to improve
security in the lot by improving the lighting and video
surveillance, and approving the installation of an access
control arm.
The Board also conducted what it expects will be the first of
a series of periodic surveys of the resident population. 73%
of the residents completed the survey, and their responses
gave the Board valuable guidance on MLT’s strengths and
areas for improvement.
EAH had its first full year as our management company, and
they continued to elevate MLT’s operations:
• 96 units were certified and their files passed the TCAC
inspection with flying colors
• Vacancy losses for the year were 40% lower than the
year before
• Water damage to the lounge, caused by a broken drain
pipe, was completely fixed within a week
• Baseboard heaters are being assessed and replaced to
improve the comfort and energy efficiency of
apartments
The Board thanks the following members of the EAH staff:
Jeff Kohler, Vice President of Property Management; Mark
Schiferl, Assistant Director of Property Management; David
Kim, Property Supervisor; Ron Dirks, Property Supervisor;
Zuly Cruz, Property Manager; John Hunter, Maintenance
Supervisor; Cherry Calvin, Maintenance Technician; and
Richard Gallo, Resident Services Coordinator. The Board
also thanks Pat Anderson — one of MLT’s charter residents
— for providing excellent standby support.
The Board also thanks the following:
• Prs. Jennert and Ekdale, who, through their work in the
Senior Center, continue to enrich residents’ lives
through activities and field trips.
• The law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, which has
provided the Board with a considerable amount of pro
bono legal services this
year. In particular, the
Board recognizes the
generosity and expertise of
Jon Ocker, Nikka Rapkin,
and George Yuhas.
• The MLT Residents
Association, especially
Larry Monroe, President;
Eve Plasse, Vice President;
Carol Snodgrass, Secretary;
and Barbara Redfield,
Treasurer. Jo Chadwick
 was the primarily liaison between the Residents
Association and the MLT Board, and we thank her as
well. Their combined leadership was crucial after the
shooting tragedy and during the ups and downs more
typical for this type of community.
The MLT Board of Trustees consists entirely of St. Mark’s
members, specifically: Mark Hammitt, President; Susan
Munn, Vice President; Jon Moeller, Treasurer; Adrienne
Nelson, Secretary; Pastor Elizabeth Ekdale, Barbara Bock,
Jonathan Ocker, Steven Krefting, Andrew Sallach, Scott
Taylor, and Omer Voss.
Respectfully submitted,
Mark Hammitt
Human Resources
Primary responsibilities of the Human Resources (HR)
Committee are to advise the pastors on human resources
issues and make recommendations to Church Council. The
Committee was expanded in 2008 in anticipation of the
retirement of 3 members during 2009. Current members
are: Pr. Ekdale, Pr. Jennert, Marge Jencks, Marie Jose Baum,
Marge Okuley, Geri Bailey, Kurt Putnam, and Matt Helland.
Both Kurt and Matt are attorneys in areas relating to
employment law. (Bob Ruh, who has extensive HR
experience, serves as an on-call HR consultant.)
HR meetings are scheduled as needed to address employee
issues, such as, staffing needs, job descriptions, hiring,
human resources policies, employment laws, salary
recommendations, cost-of-living increases, and employee
benefits. Four meetings were held in 2008, in February,
April, June, and September. The Committee also
participated in several special meetings held by Council.
There are currently 4 full-time and 8 part-time employees of
St. Mark’s: Lead Pastor, Associate Pastor, Interim Organist
and Choir Director, 9:00 AM Musician, Director of Church
Administration and Operations, Administrative Assistant,
Bookkeeper, Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds, Facilities
Coordinator, a security monitor, and two nursery
attendants. Also, a pool of volunteers provides office
support during the week, working designated shifts to assist
office staff and pastors.
Jun Ranches, Director of Church Administration and
Operations, has been at St. Mark’s for 4 years and is the key
manager of operations, administration, and financial
functions. He manages or participates in many functional
activities of the church community, including financial
oversight, financial reports and statements, fundraising, the
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capital campaign, the annual budget, space rentals, Web
site design, online donations, creates banners, flyers, and
brochures, assists in developing policies for weddings and
special events, and acts as church office manager.
Ann Dayton, Administrative Assistant, gathers appropriate
information for and produces weekly worship bulletins and
announcements, designs and produces The Evangel
newsletter, and assists in updating the Web site.
Bookkeeper Cheryl Garcia tracks and processes accounts
receivable and accounts payable, working closely with Jun
and the church treasurer. Tina Haner, our Facilities
Coordinator, handles inquiries and bookings for group
events and weddings. She also monitors events to ensure
they run smoothly and church property is protected.
David Auerbach became interim organist and choir director
last March, and is scheduled to serve until a permanent
musician is hired in 2009. During the past year David added
several new choir members and helped greatly in sustaining
and broadening the music program at St. Mark’s. Highlights
of his tenure included a special Advent program with
orchestra and a production of “Amahl and the Night
Visitors”. Stacy Cullison serves as Musician for the 9:00 AM
Sunday worship service.
Duc Huynh, Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds for St.
Mark’s Square, is celebrating his 20th year at St. Mark’s and
is known to be able to “fix anything”. He also serves as
weekday custodian. Carl Storey is now responsible for
security during Sunday mornings.
The current primary nursery assistants are Elvira Markov
and Johanna Najera.
Staff members received annual evaluations from his/her
supervisor, and received recognition and appreciation on
behalf of the HR Committee in honor of Administrative
Professionals Day.
Agenda items for the HR Committee during the past year
included: policies for paid time off accrual for staff and
pastors, benefits for staff, interim organist position, drafts of
job descriptions relating to the music program, health
benefits for Pr. Jennert, summer hours for office staff,
recommendations for cost-of-living increases, updating the
Employee Handbook, and staffing for the nursery.
Respectfully submitted,
Marge Jencks, Chair of HR Committee
Mutual Ministry
The St. Mark’s Mutual Ministry Committee concentrates on
promoting and supporting healthy relationships between
staff, pastors and parishioners with the goal of helping the
church to stay focused on mission and ministry.
A big thank you to Mutual Ministry members who rotated
off the committee this year: Mary Ritter, Tom Breice and
Bob Jacobsen.
The current committee members are Charles Jacobs, Shelly
Taylor, John Varian, Jo Chadwick, John Elford, Pastor
Elizabeth, Pastor Christian Jennert and Catherine Hurley,
Facilitator.
The Mutual Ministry Committee supports the partnership
between the pastors and parishioners in living out our
baptismal calling. We scan the congregation for developing
trends, listen to the needs of members and provide
recommendations to the pastors and Church Council to help
calibrate the mission of congregation at large.
The Mutual Ministry held four regular meetings in 2008,
met with two small group sessions in October and
presented at an Adult Forum in November, in addition to
supporting church staff and listening to you, the members of
St. Mark’s, throughout the year. Please seek us out - we’re
here to listen and to represent you in respect to our larger
faith community.
Respectfully submitted,
Catherine Hurley
Women of the ELCA (WELCA)
In 2008, the Women of the ELCA of St. Mark’s and St. Paulus
got off to an exciting start. In January, we invited women
from other Lutheran Congregations to our monthly meeting
to hear Christine Grumm, President and CEO of the
Women’s Funding Network speak. Ms Grumm served as
Deputy General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation
in Geneva. She is valued for her special gifts in bringing
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people together to create visionary solutions and translating
those ideas into reality. Many questions of how to help the
global community on a local level followed her presentation.
Ms Grumm provided information and handouts to take with
us for further thought.
In February, after sending our financial contribution to the
Sierra Pacific Synod, we also contributed to other
organizations. It was decided that our benevolence gifts for
2008 be given to the following groups, with each receiving
$100:
• Maya Works
• Kerry’s Kids
• Cordero de Dios Lutheran Church (sister
congregation to St. Mark’s)
• Living Waters Lutheran Church (sister
congregation to St. Paulus)
• Rwanda School Project
• Safe House
April brought the loss of one of our beloved long time
members, Hilda Pope. The WELCA group planned and
prepared the memorial tea for Hilda which was held at the
beginning of May. She will be missed by us all.
Our “WELCA Celebrates Summer” Luncheon was held in July
at Shima Sushi Japanese Restaurant. This is an annual
event.
Also, in July, Nadine Robinson and Geri Bailey attended the
Seventh Triennial Gathering of the Women of the ELCA. The
theme was “Come to the Waters” and was held July 10th -
13th in Salt Lake City, UT. Nadine represented our Synod as
a voting delegate at the business sessions prior to the
Gathering. Geri attended the Gathering. The keynote
speaker was Sister Joan Chittister. It was a privilege to hear
her speak.
Wanelda Jones, who was a member of WELCA for a number
of years before moving to Salem Lutheran Home, passed
away in July.
After our August summer break, we resumed our WELCA
activities in September, with a new Bible study year. This
year’s study is “The Hidden Hand of God”: Wisdom Stories
from Ruth, Daniel and Esther.
In October, Nadine Robinson and Darlyce Sandrock
attended the Sierra Pacific Synod Women of the ELCA
regional event entitled “ACT-LOVE-WALK”. This event was
held at All Saint’s Lutheran Church in Novato. Our own St.
Mark’s member, Jo Chadwick was the keynote speaker.

In November, we had our election of officers. The 2009 officers are: Nadine Robinson and Geri Bailey, Co-Presidents, Pam Ruh,
Secretary, Suzanne Smith, Treasurer and Marlo Tellschow, Program. Also, we welcomed back Jan Charter from Peru. Jan leads us
in hymns and other songs during our meetings.

“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” was the theme for the WELCA Christmas Gathering. It was a festive and joyful event. Suzanne,
Darlyce, Donna and Marlo planned the program, each taking a part of one of the Angels in the Christmas story. The luncheon was
planned and prepared by Dean Atkinson. Jan Charter and Pastor Jennert provided the music. Jan presented a history of each of
the songs which gave each hymn an even greater significance.

The women of St. Mark’s and St. Paulus meet from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on the second Tuesday of each month. The meeting is
held in the Fireside Room in St. Mark’s Urban Life Center. Please bring a sandwich or salad for lunch. Dessert and coffee is
provided. Join us for prayer, bible study, fellowship and fun. If you would like more information please contact Nadine Robinson
or Geri Bailey.

Respectfully submitted,
Geri Bailey, WELCA President

Five Year Statistical Summary

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Baptisms 16 7 13 4 14
Confirmations 0 7 0 4 0
Weddings 4 1 0 12 18
Funerals 7 0 1 2 6
New Members Received 40 45 36 20 22
Baptized Members 454 496 521 523 537
Confirmed Members 385 427 440 443 444
Average Worship Attendance 190 191 182 190 194

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