Table of Contents

Page

A Guide to Saint Mark’s - Introduction...................................................... 2

The Church at the Cross+Roads - A Brief History..................................... 2

Saint Mark’s Core Values.......................................................................... 2

The Clergy and Staff at Saint Mark’s...................................................... 3-5

Communications....................................................................................... 5

A Guide to Our Church Buildings

The Church..................................................................................... 6

The Meditation Garden.................................................................... 7

The McKinley Office Center............................................................ 7

The Parish House............................................................................ 8

Worship at Saint Mark’s....................................................................... 9-10

Education and Spiritual Growth at Saint Mark’s................................... 11-12

Groups and Organizations....................................................................... 13

Support for Our Members....................................................................... 14

Outreach to the Community and the World............................................... 15

Frequently Asked Questions............................................................... 16-17

The Organization of the Parish................................................................. 18

Acknowledgements................................................................................. 18

A GUIDE TO SAINT MARK’S- Introduction

This “Guide to Saint Mark’s” has been prepared to introduce our visitors and newcomers to our Church, a community of people serving Christ at the “crossroads.” Within these pages, we have shared our history and traditions, introduced you to our staff and facilities, and provided a description of the organizations and programs that are at work at Saint Mark’s.

We hope you will find this booklet informative. The Church Office welcomes any comments you may have about its usefulness.

“The Church at the Cross†Roads” – A Brief History

Saint Mark’s is a part of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, America’s oldest diocese. We had our beginning in 1848 as a mission of the College of Saint James. Services and Sunday school were begun by the Rev. Robert Clarkson, Deacon of the Saint James faculty, now Saint James School. The attendance was so encouraging that it was resolved to build the Church. Dr. James Thomas Maddox donated one acre of ground near Lappans Crossroad. The cornerstone was laid in April 1849 and the completed building was consecrated on July 25, 1849, by Bishop William R. Whittingham, Bishop of Maryland. In the fall of 1862, the Battle of Antietam raged not more than six miles south of Saint Mark’s and the Church was closed for a few months due to battle damage. An excellent printed history of Saint Mark’s is available at the Church Office. We also have a history video produced for our 150^th anniversary in 1999.

Today the people of Saint Mark’s continue to gather in this quiet rural setting which provides a place to worship God “and continue steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship” (Acts 2:42) in the traditional style and manner of the Episcopal Church. Whether it be a Cross†Road in your life, or the attractiveness of our historic setting at the Cross†Road that has brought you to Saint Mark’s; whether you were invited by a friend or family member; whether you have come seeking or wanting to give; we hope this “Guide to Saint Mark’s” will be an entryway into a new Cross†Road for your faith.

Saint Mark’s Core Values

Saint Mark’s:

Welcomes seekers and encourages exploration of the Bible and understanding of the

Gospel of Jesus Christ

Offers a variety of historical and contemporary Episcopal practices

Nurtures each member throughout the journey in life and faith

Embraces and celebrates the special gifts and needs of children as citizens of the Kingdom of God

Challenges each member to practice faith in daily life, to build community, share gifts and talents, and reach out in love and concern for others.

The Clergy of Saint Mark’s

The Reverend Anne O. Weatherholt – Rector of St. Mark's

The Reverend Anne O. Weatherholt Rector of St.Mark's Mrs. Weatherholt began her ministry as the 13^th Rector of Saint Mark's in November of 1993. Prior to that time, she served as Chaplain at Hood College, Frederick, Maryland, (1979‑1983) and as Assisting Priest at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Frederick (1983-1993). She is a graduate of Saint Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota and the Virginia Theological Seminary, Alexandria, Virginia. Mrs. Weatherholt was ordained to the priesthood February 3, 1980. She lives in Hancock (just west of Hagerstown) with her husband, the Reverend Allan Weatherholt, Rector of Saint Thomas’ Parish, Hancock, and her two sons, Daniel and Stephen.

The Reverend Charles R. McGinley, Retired, Assisting Priest

(11th Rector of Saint Mark's 1973-1987)

Father “Mac” is a graduate of Hagerstown Junior College, Boston University and Virginia Theological Seminary. He has served parishes in Virginia, California, Kansas and Maryland. Married, he has three sons and four grandchildren. Father “Mac” began his voluntary services as Assisting Priest in 1999, assisting with Sunday morning liturgy and teaching in our Adult Classes from time to time.

The Reverend William J. Kersting, Retired, Assisting Priest

Rev William J. Kersting Assisting Priest Father Bill retired from Mack Truck in Hagerstown in October 1986 as Senior Engineer after 27.5 years service. He was ordained Deacon for Saint Anne's Church, Smithsburg, Maryland, on July 6, 1978 and ordained Priest on May 6, 1979. He served as Vicar of Saint Anne's until retirement on January 1, 1992. Father Bill began his voluntary services as Assisting Priest at Saint Mark's in 1996. He assists with the Wednesday Service and helps the Rector visit the sick and shut-ins of our parish.

The Reverend John D. Cozzoli, Deacon

Deacon John is a graduate of North Hagerstown High School class of 1957. He served in the United States Air Force 1959-1962 and was a radio announcer 1963-68 (WJEJ & WARK Radio). John retired from Mack Trucks in July 2001 after 33 years. He was ordained to the Vocational Diaconate in June of 1989. He has served in Saint Thomas' Parish, Hancock; Church of the Transfiguration, Braddock Heights; Saint Andrew's, Clear Spring and Saint Anne's, Smithburg. Deacon John joined Saint Mark's in July 1999. He is married with two daughters and seven grandchildren. John’s voluntary ministry includes assisting in the liturgy and with pastoral care. He also holds services at several local Retirement Centers and serves as a part-time Chaplain for the Washington County Hospital.

The Rev. Sandra Kline Mortimer

Sandra graduated from West Virginia University with a B.S. in Agriculture and Veterinary Science. She attended the Virginia Theological Seminary and received her Master’s in Divinity in 1989. She began her ministry as a Deacon in the Diocese of West Virginia. She was ordained to the Priesthood in 1990 and accepted a call as Assistant Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, Martinsburg, West Virginia. Following three years in that position, she served as Interim Rector at Saint James Church, Westernport, Maryland, and became canonically resident in the Diocese of Maryland. She began her volunteer ministry at Saint Mark’s in the fall of 2002, and assists with the Sunday morning liturgies. Sandra works full time as Executive Director of Blue Ridge Community and Counseling Service, Inc. in Martinsburg. She holds a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Counseling and is currently working on her Ph. D. She is a licensed Professional Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, a Diplomate of the American Psychotherapy Association, a Certified Forensic Therapist and a Certified Marriage and Family Therapist.

Meet the Staff at Saint Mark’s:

Parish Administrator, Lee Auchincloss, keeps it all together in the Church Office, serving as editor of the Sunday bulletin and The Epistle, our Church newsletter, keeper of the record books, and the one person who can answer most of your questions.

Music Director Christopher Reynolds (SPC--American Guild of Organists, Service Playing Certified), is Organist at most of our services, directs our Adult Choir, selects the music for our services, and leads the Choir in anthems and music for special services. He is ably supported by two talented volunteers: Assisting Organists, Star Davis and Ginger O’Connell.

COMMUNICATIONS

The Epistle is our church newsletter, published 10 times a year. It is sent to every household on our mailing list, including our college students away at school.

The Saint Mark’s website is updated on a regular basis. You can find a monthly calendar, liturgical schedule, and information about our groups and organizations.

The Sunday Bulletins contain two pages of announcements that highlight current and upcoming events, plus a calendar for the coming week. Please take your bulletin home for reference. A copy of the announcements is sent to members who wish to be on the Saint Mark’s e-mail list.

E-mail is a great way to communicate with the Rector and the Church Office. The Rector and Parish Administrator check their e-mail on a regular basis.

A General E-Mail List is kept by the Rector and is used to send the weekly bulletin announcements and notices of concern. It is private and not shared with others or used to forward materials from other sources. You may also ask to be placed on a list to receive copies of sermons from time to time by e-mail.

You may leave telephone messages using our automatic answering system when there is no one to take your call in the office. These messages are retrieved on a regular basis. Likewise, you can hear a taped message regarding current events that is updated monthly.

A GUIDE TO OUR CHURCH BUILDINGS

THE CHURCH

Built on ground given by Dr. James Thomas Maddox, the Church was dedicated on the 25^th day of July 1849. Life at Saint Mark’s saw the formation of a vested choir in 1923 and the installation of a Moeller pipe organ in 1927, donated by Miss Anne Maddox. In 1949, as the “Centennial Anniversary” of Saint Mark’s approached, the entire interior of the Church was redecorated and furnished. In May 1977, during the tenure of the Rev. Charles R. McGinley, an addition to the church was built with a sacristy, choir and clergy vesting area, and storage for altar ware and worship accessories. Seating is comfortable for 80 people.

A first aid kit, emergency telephone, and fire extinguisher are in the Sacristy.

In the back of the Church…you will find shelves and racks with helpful information and resources: spiritual tracts including Forward Day by Day and information about the Episcopal Church. Children’s bulletins and large print prayer books are on the shelves along with various handouts, newcomer packets and copies of the Diocesan newspaper, The Maryland Church News.

THE MEDITATION GARDEN

Adjacent to the Church building on the southwest side, a bench and garden area have been established to provide a quiet, sacred place for prayer and meditation.

THE MCKINLEY CENTER

In 1899, Miss Anne Maddox donated the funds used to build the Rectory which formerly served as the home for several Priests. Renamed "The Walter McKinley Center” in 2001, in honor of our 7^th Rector who served Saint Mark’s from 1917-1956, the building now serves as the Parish Office Center.

You will find the following in the McKinley Center

First Floor: restrooms, emergency telephone, Rector’s office, Parish Administrator’s office, Church mailboxes, kitchen, lounge used for small meetings, Bible study and counseling.

Second Floor: restroom, two youth Sunday School rooms, Treasurer’s & Parish Nurse office, Nursery.

THE PARISH HOUSE

The existing Parish House was dedicated in 1955 and was built from a portion of a bequest from Mr. George Wilson. This building is handicapped accessible. Many parish activities, including Sunday School, take place in our Parish House.

You will find the following in the Parish House:

Restrooms, a large Parish Hall suitable for classes, fellowship and community events, a large kitchen, classrooms and the “Wilson Room,” a small lounge.

The Growing Tree Pre-School is located in the Parish House:

The Growing Tree Pre-School is a locally owned, fully accredited half-day pre-school for children aged two through four. One of its co-owners is a member of Saint Mark’s and the school rents space in an old, converted bowling alley. School meets September through June and offers many early childhood development programs as well as a morning snack and outdoors play on the new “ark,” donated by a church member in 2001. For information regarding program and registration, you may contact the Growing Tree directly at 301-582-0728.

WORSHIP AT SAINT MARK’S

Our liturgies are led by both clergy and dedicated laity. The Rector serves as celebrant and preacher for most services, assisted by priests and a deacon. Saint Mark’s offers a variety of Episcopal worship on Sunday mornings and all three services have a distinctive “flavor.” The early morning service is in “traditional” language without music. The second service is “child friendly,” promoting participation from all ages and using contemporary language. Music at this service alternates between contemporary Christian music with guitar accompaniment and music from our Episcopal Hymnal, using organ accompaniment. Our late morning service rotates between the use of “traditional” and “contemporary” language, as well as Morning Prayer.

A Wednesday morning healing service is offered each week at 11:00 a.m., including the Litany for Healing and the Laying on of Hands with oil.

Snow Policy: Saint Mark’s snow policy goes into effect each winter. All parish-sponsored activities and worship services are cancelled when an official “snow emergency” is in effect. The “snow emergency” is determined by the Hagerstown Barrack of the Maryland State Police and is announced on most radio and television stations. A call is made to local radio and TV stations to announce Saint Mark’s cancellations, but you may also call the Maryland State Highway Administration hotline at 1-800-327-3125, which is usually updated when a snow emergency is in effect.

Saint Mark’s Welcomes Volunteers for the Following

Liturgical Ministries:

(While we try to ask you what you would like to do, please know that Saint Mark’s is a parish that welcomes participation on all levels. You do not have to “wait” until you have been here for a while, nor do you need to go through extensive training. Should you be interested in any of the ministries listed, you may always speak to the persons you see performing them, speak to the Rector or contact the Church Office.)

Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEM)-Chalicists assist with the chalice at the altar during the worship services and assist the Acolytes and Acolytes Master. They may take the reserved sacrament to the sick and shut-ins of the parish.

Lectors read the lessons from both the Old and the New Testaments and from the Psalms for the appropriate Sunday of the church year. They also lead the Prayers of the People.

Oblations Bearers carry the unconsecrated bread and wine from the back of the Church to the Clergy at the altar.

Ushers serve as greeters, seating coordinators and a willing set of hands for the regularly scheduled services. They hand out bulletins and are ready to help answer any questions you might have. When needed, the Ushers also serve at funerals and special liturgies.

Tellers count the offering after the Sunday morning services and make the deposits. Vestry members are asked to serve in this capacity, along with other volunteers.

The Acolytes Guild assists with worship. They are organized into three categories: Senior Acolytes, Server and Torch Acolytes. The categories are based upon age and degree of responsibility. Senior Acolytes wear the white hooded alb and have responsibility for processing with the large gold cross. There is a formal training program for these youth, ages 8 and older.

The Altar Guild prepares the Church for services. This group performs the important tasks of maintaining all of the altar ware of the Church; managing the placement of flowers, and maintaining vestments and memorials. The Guild is also responsible for clearing the altar after each service. The members take turns with delivering the altar flowers to the sick and shut-ins of the parish following the services.

The Adult Choir sings at the late morning service and is led by the Music Director. They practice weekly and present sacred music for services at Saint Mark’s. They are always looking for dedicated people who love music.

The Children’s Choir sings at the middle service on a regular basis. The goal of this choir is to incorporate as many of the children as possible to participate in this important ministry.

The Folk Choir leads singing at the middle service two Sundays each month. Guitarists and willing voices are always welcome.

EDUCATION and SPIRITUAL GROWTH

AT SAINT MARK’S

Adult Education Classes are held on Sunday mornings in two shifts after the first two services for all interested adults. Topics are planned and coordinated in advance following the church calendar. Subject matter is both practical and spiritual. Walk-ins are more than welcome. Regular “Fellowship Sundays” are held throughout the year. Members are encouraged to sign up to donate snacks. Hot and cold beverages are provided by the Church.

The Sunday School provides a well prepared and Biblically based program for all ages -- toddlers to teens -- each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. In addition to the Sunday program, many special events of a social nature are held yearly. There is also a Vacation Bible School program each summer.

A Mid-Week Bible Study is led by the Rector and held on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. in the McKinley Center. All are welcome to attend and participate. No weekly commitment is required since the study for each week is from the lectionary for the following Sunday.

Youth Programs

Rite 13 Group: The Journey to Adulthood (J2A) program was introduced in 2002 to aid in the transition from childhood towards an adult faith. The program is for students in Middle School. It helps students identify their abilities, confirm their relationships, and work with others in Christian fellowship. It celebrates their individuality and their potential while instructing them in the skills needed to be mature participants in Church and society.

Senior High Youth Group: For young adults in the community who are in grades 9-12. The group meets on Sunday mornings to discuss current issues, personal issues, and general topics. There is both a social and spiritual component to the group and outside activities are planned according to the interest of the students.

Spiritual Growth

Cursillo is a movement within the Episcopal Church designed to promote spiritual renewal and train Church leaders to develop discipleship within the church. Cursillo weekends are held at Bishop Claggett Conference Center, a retreat facility owned by the Diocese of Maryland, in Buckeystown in Frederick County. Regular gatherings, called Ultreyas, are held all over the diocese. The Washington County Ultreya is held at Saint John's in Hagerstown and meets on the third Sunday of each month at 7:00 p.m. (no meeting in December). Everyone is invited to attend this meeting whether they have made their Cursillo or not.

Spiritual Direction is offered by a member who holds a degree in Spiritual Direction from Loyola University. She uses classical Christian tools of journaling, contemplative prayer and meditation, and study of the scriptures.

Alpha is a program designed for adults wishing to begin a faith journey. It is a practical introduction to the Christian faith taught in a 10-week period. The sessions are held in the evening and include a meal, teaching, discussion time and fellowship.

GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS

The Daughters of the King (DOK): An international religious order for women who vow to uphold the two parts of the Rule of Life of the Order: The Rule of Prayer and the Rule of Service. The purpose of the Order is to bring others into a living, loving relationship with Jesus and to strengthen the spiritual life of our parishes and missions. The Saint Mark’s Chapter was instituted on Mothers Day, May 14, 2000. The group provides meals to the sick or bereaved, presents gifts to needy children, and is a strong ministry in the community locally, nationally, and internationally.

The Episcopal Church Women (ECW): The association of women in the parish which promotes the interaction of Saint Mark’s within the community. All women of the parish are invited to attend and participate. The ECW is proud of its long service to the parish which includes an annual Fall Bazaar and several outreach projects.

The Brotherhood of Saint Andrew: An international ministry of men within the Anglican Communion whose purpose is “the spread of Christ’s Kingdom, among men.” Saint Andrew introduced others to Jesus and that is the mission of the Brotherhood. The group promotes missionary efforts, Christian fellowship among men and boys, and daily devotion and Bible study. Study, Prayer, and Service are required components.

Episcopal Church Men (ECM): An informal association of any interested men of the parish which meets for breakfast on the second Saturday morning of the month. Members include clergy and attendees from each of the three Sunday services. The meetings serve as “get-togethers” and often result in maintenance projects at Saint Mark’s or in our community.

Set Meeting Times

Ultreya at St. John’s: Third Sunday at 7:00 p.m. – 101 South Prospect St., Hagerstown

DOK: Second Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. in the Wilson Room, Parish House

ECW: Second Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m. in the Wilson Room, Parish House

ECM: Second Saturday at 8:00 a.m. in the Parish Hall for Breakfast

Brotherhood of St. Andrew: Second Saturday after the ECM meetings

Vestry: Second Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall

SUPPORT FOR OUR MEMBERS

The 12:13 Guild: This group of volunteers is unique to Saint Mark’s and takes it name from Saint Paul’s epistle to the Romans, 12:13, “Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality.” The group sends cards to the sick and bereaved, organizes meals for families during crises, illness, or recuperation, prepares and delivers welcome baskets and church materials to newcomers, sends “Care Packages” to parishioners who are in college or in the military, visits shut-ins, and assists the clergy with any special needs of the members.

Parish Nurse(s): Members of the congregation who are nurses and have received special training through the Washington County Hospital. They provide speakers on health-related topics, conduct regular blood pressure monitoring, help in education, advocacy and support services, as well as offering information in the Church newsletter. They provide an information center and bulletin board in the Parish Hall. This is a ministry of education providing holistic health to the Saint Mark’s community.

Pastoral Care: The clergy provide regular visits with Holy Communion to the shut-ins and sick in the parish. The Parish Nurses also support this ministry, providing advice and information when requested to members hospitalized or in related need. Other members provide special help and assistance relative to their professional expertise in various areas.

Deacon: Our Deacon, aside from his official duties at Sunday services, provides support to the outreach, service and educational components of the parish. He leads services twice a month on Sunday mornings at the Robinwood Retirement Center and once a month at Eden Pines, a facility for those with Alzheimers Disease. He also serves as an emergency on-call Chaplain at the Washington County Hospital.

Cemetery Committee: Charged with maintaining the cemeteries of the parish, the committee assists in burials on the property. There is a great deal of work involved in locating the exact dimensions of the plots, marking of the plots, and overseeing interments. Additional responsibilities include decorating of the graves of veterans on national holidays and removal of old decorations in a timely manner.

OUTREACH TO OUR COUMMUNITY AND THE WORLD

The Outreach Committee carries the mission and ministry of service from the Parish to the outside world - from organizing the gathering of school materials for needy schoolchildren in the county or packages for the local shelters; supporting emergency aid for disaster areas; or looking at the world as their service area. This committee is open to all members with a sense of service. Special fund-raising collections are taken from time to time. Each year the Church raises a crop of corn. The proceeds from that sale is used to fund outreach. Donations directly to the Outreach Fund are appreciated.

Grocery Store Food Certificates for Martin’s and Weiss Supermarkets are sold each Sunday and 5% of the cost returns to our Outreach Fund. You may also go on line and register with www.foodlion.com to have a share of your grocery expense credited to Saint Mark’s.

Parish Hall Use: The Parish Hall was built as a resource for the community and is available for any reasonable purpose with the Rector’s approval. Use in the recent year has been for private parties, Yoga, and Body and Soul Aerobics, a strengthening class, various workshops, Literacy Training, Y-Me (a camp for cancer survivors), and Diocesan training in the awareness of Domestic Violence. If you are interested in using the Parish Hall, please contact the Church Office during normal weekly office hours.

South County Food Bank: Saint Mark’s was a founding member of the South County Food Bank. The parish continues to send food collected on the first Sunday of each month. Individual cash donations may be made through Saint Mark’s, as the Church makes a yearly donation to the Food Bank.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What happens when I visit Saint Mark’s for the first time?

When you visit for the first time, you will be offered an information packet and a newcomer’s card to fill out that day. We will add your name to the mailing list, if you desire, and you will be contacted within the first week of our receiving your name and address to see if you have any questions. You may refer to our website, listed on the front of this guide, for further information.

How do I become a member?

In the Episcopal Church, membership is recognized by your baptism. Once you have decided to become a member, we will ask for your date and place of baptism to add to our membership records. If you are already a member of another Episcopal Church, you may ask that your name be transferred from that church to Saint Mark’s. The Parish Administrator can help you. You may choose to make this decision at any point. Every spring, a class is offered for adults who wish to affirm their baptismal promises. Lasting ten weeks, it covers the Bible, the history and organization of the Episcopal Church, how to pray, and the worship and practice of the church. Those who complete this course may confirm their faith in a regional Confirmation service, receiving the laying-on of hands from our Bishop.

How do I receive the newsletter or place information in the newsletter?

The Epistle is mailed ten times yearly. When you complete a newcomer’s card, your name will be added to the mailing list. You may place information in the newsletter by e-mailing it to the Parish Administrator, putting it in written form in the Administrator’s mailbox in the McKinley center or calling it in. We try to honor all submissions but reserve the right to edit any materials.

How do I receive a visit from the Clergy?

Contact the Church Office by phone or e-mail. Speak with the celebrant after the service. Speak with the usher at any service. If you are going to be hospitalized, please let us know before you go or when you are admitted, as the hospital does not contact us with this information.

How do I obtain a cemetery plot at Saint Mark’s?

Plots in the “new” area of the cemetery behind the Church are sold only to those who are members (registered in the books) of Saint Mark’s. Plots may be used to bury any human remains, either in a casket or ashes. Please contact the Church Office for a application form and cemetery guidelines.

How do I obtain more information about the Outreach Programs?

Contact the Church Office by telephone or e-mail. The office will give you up-to-date information and a contact person, as well as communicate your interest to that program person.

How do I donate flowers for the altar or organ?

There is a yearly sign-up sheet in the back of the Church or you may contact the Church Office by telephone or e-mail. The Office will give you up-to-date information for the Altar Guild. The Guild will contact you and ask you about what to list in the bulletin and what you want them to do with the flowers.

How do I submit names for the Prayer List or Prayer Chain?

Contact the Church Office by telephone or e-mail if you have the information by midweek. On Sunday morning, see the Usher at the rear of the church and he will take the information and include it in that service. It is just as important to advise us when we should remove someone from the prayer list. Names may be added to the Daughters of the King Prayer list as well by completing the Daughters Prayer Request Form in the back of the Church or contacting any member of the Daughters. Names remain on the Daughters Prayer Chain for 30 days.

How do I enroll my child(ren) in Sunday school?

Registration for Sunday school is an annual event that takes place at the beginning of the regular school year in the fall. A “Rally Day” Sunday is held with special events and enrollment activities. If you come to us after that date, contact the Church Office and you will be given contact information for the following Sunday. This also alerts the Director and Teacher(s) to be on the lookout for you and your child that week. We welcome children and youth to attend at any time!

How do I make a pledge or financial gift to the church?

Once you have transferred your membership, you will be sent a pledge card during our once-a-year mailing in the fall. You may make a pledge or gift at any time by consulting the Rector who can advise you as to the various forms and methods.

How do I participate in planned giving or leaving money to the church in my will?

You may choose to make a gift of stocks, bonds or other securities or name the church in your estate or will. Please consult with the Rector or the Church Treasurer for more information.

THE ORGANIZATION OF THE PARISH:

Saint Mark’s is a Parish of the Diocese of Maryland. Our Bishops serve as our Spiritual and Administrative leaders, helping each parish continue to grow in ministry and mission. Through the framework of the Diocese, we can share and receive information and resources, as well as share our faith.

The Rector is the President of the local parish, serving as pastor, preacher, and teacher to help each person grow in Christ.

Vestry: In the Episcopal Church, the Vestry, elected from among the members of the Church, is designated as the “legal agents and representatives of the parish in all matters concerning corporate property and the relations of the parish to the clergy.” (Constitution and Canons) The Rector is the President of the Vestry and presides at all meetings. Saint Mark’s Vestry is made up of four officers: The Senior Warden who is also called the “Rector’s Warden,” and presides in the absence of the Rector; the Junior Warden, also called the “People’s Warden,” who is primarily in charge of buildings and grounds; the Registrar, who serves as the recording Secretary; and the Treasurer, who oversees the financial matters for the parish. In addition, nine members serve on three-year rotations, three new members being elected each year at the annual meeting in January.

Annual Meeting: The Annual Meeting is held on the last Sunday of January, weather permitting. During the meeting, the annual report, containing reports from the various groups and committees, and the annual budget are presented. Three new Vestry members are elected and any other necessary business of the parish is conducted, including any changes in by-laws or procedures.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This Guide to Saint Mark’s is the result of many hands: Philip McLaughlin—for the original draft, now very much altered, but still showing his talent; Lee Auchincloss; Tom Schrecengost; the Rev. Anne Weatherholt and the Rev. Allan Weatherholt (Rector of St. Thomas’ in Hancock and Anne’s husband).