January 22, 2006

In 2005 our focus on making "ends meet" changed to mission and ministry. Fundraising and targeted giving secured the budget for the rest of the year. This allowed us in the Fall to begin a program for the future of St. Mark’s, called Grow with St. Mark’s. This is a call for all of us to take seriously the need to invite and incorporate new members, including a new rector.

The Search Committee began the search process and has been faithful to the task and, with God’s help, has identified a number of excellent candidates from which the Vestry will choose.

Although we have had a number our members join the saints in Heaven, the spirit of the congregation has been strong. A number of new families have joined and we have been blessed with a constant stream of babies being born and baptized, and let us not forget the 24 youth who were confirmed last Eastertide.

It has been a delight to work with a terrific group of volunteers and staff who give willingly of their time and talents on behalf of the congregation to carry out the Administration of the parish, provide for Worship, Christian formation, Mission and Outreach, Parish life, Buildings and Grounds.

There are two critical challenges that face us in 2006 which must be addressed. One is the development of a plan for the reduction of or our financial debt. The other is to strengthen of our Youth Program.

As we focus on our call to Grow with St. Mark’s, it is essential not only to provide catechetical experiences for our youth on Sundays. It is also important to provide a social context in which they support each other. Junior High and Senior High group activities are essentials to develop opportunities for our youth to connect with other adults, parents,

and youth in our diocese.

Finally, as the time comes for you to embrace a new Rector and for my leave-taking, it will be a bittersweet time for me. I have enjoyed serving at St. Mark’s because of the people I have come to know and love.

Sheila Ferguson

 What a difference a year makes. Although it may sound trite, in our case it is exactly the right phrase to sum up a year full of "little miracles". As I reflect back on last year’s annual meeting, I am struck by how the Lord has removed all of the big concerns I had going into 2005.

Leading the list last year was our financial condition. We had to cut our program back significantly in 2004 and depend on volunteers for many of our activities. We presented a budget with a $17,000 gap between the pledges we had in hand and the expenses we expected to incur in 2005. We did not have enough income to meet our debt obligations in the building fund. Consider how richly God has blessed us. Many in the Parish gave unselfishly to both the "Lent Event" and the "Bridging the Gap" supplemental fund raisers. Instead of the $17,000 we prayed for in January, $35,000 was given. The rectory loomed as a significant drain on our income as we pondered a year with no one living in it. In answer to that prayer, God sent two wonderful families, whose houses were being renovated, that needed a place to live for an extended period. These families have taken loving care of the house; more than paid for the mortgage and the utilities and have each given St. Mark’s a generous donation. When we were concerned that we would have to go even deeper in debt during the summer to make the mortgage payments until the usual end of the year gifts came in, the Parish responded totally to our request to advance the pledge payments. As a result, rather than going deeper into debt, we were able to PAY OFF $30,000. The latest financial indication of God’s goodness towards us is the surplus with which we ended the year. Increased giving, unexpected donations, additional usage fees and the Staff’s careful spending resulted in the first significant surplus in years.

At this time last year, we were still struggling with what has come to be known as "the troubles". In honesty, we were totally focused on ourselves and our "troubles". However, look at what God has lead us to do this year. Every facet of outreach is up. We sent in more Christmas baskets, gave more to Habitat, Bridge Communities, and the Diocese. We are active again in PADS and have renewed our support for Walk in Ministries and the DuPage Counseling group, as well as hosting several Diocesan and community events, including the Holiday Bazaar and the Diocesan confirmation for 65 confirmands.

The best part of this story is that others are noticing. Fifteen new families have joined our ranks. The Bishop has sent a letter thanking us for our support and acknowledging our progress. We are being asked to participate in Community programs. I believe we are noticing the difference also. Have you noticed that no one seems to want to go home after church anymore? We all just stay around and talk. The love and fellowship within our Parish family is warming us and shining out to others, inviting them in -- and I think that’s the way it’s supposed to work!!

There are many people to thank for making these "little miracles" happen. God works in mysterious ways, but almost always through people in our midst. That has truly been the case at St. Mark’s. We are blessed with a wonderful staff: Charles, Miguel, Mary, and Nora. Our volunteers are awesome, from the office team, to Michelle and Joel, who work with our youth, to Bob and Dave who work with the finances, to Myrna who faithfully directs our adult education. Our Search committee has done a spectacular job seeking out a new Rector for us. Your Vestry has worked long and hard to manage our programs and finances. And the list goes on and on. We have had more volunteer activity this year than I can ever remember – and I think that has been very good.

But most of all, we all should thank God for his gift of our clergy. Sheila has been truly the right person at the right time. She has listened, comforted, cajoled, prayed, healed and lead us through a very difficult time to a place where we can feel good about ourselves and each other, and go with faith and confidence about the mission that God has in mind for us. Walter has been wonderful in his support, encouragement and teaching as he has stepped back into his role as Assistant Rector. They have performed the biggest "little miracle" of all; they have put us back on the path that the Lord has set out for us.

As of Jan. 12 we have received 117 pledges totaling $266,595 towards the 2006 Operating Fund. I’m happy to report there are 17 new pledging families this year. Thanks to all of you for supporting St. Mark’s.

I want to thank the Stewardship Team members - Pat Fry, Richard Gier, Jeff Linstrom and Jack Washam. Lastly, a special thank you to Wilma Linde, and to Sheila for her guidance, commitment and support throughout the year.

Jim Jenkins, Chair.

St. Mark’s 2005 Search Committee was chartered at the Annual Meeting in January 2005 and charged by the vestry to: conduct a Parish Survey concerning the characteristics and skills of the next rector, develop a Parish Profile, conduct a national search for suitable candidates, and select a final candidate to recommend to the vestry.

With the assistance of a consultant, with use of the process prescribed by the Diocese of Chicago, and with the grace of God and guidance from the Holy Spirit, we accomplished these tasks. We on St. Mark’s search committee were privileged to interact with a number of dedicated and well-qualified priests. After reviewing their qualifications, interviewing them and their references, visiting several in their home parishes, and inviting several finalists to visit St. Mark’s, we recommended on January 3, 2006, that the vestry call The Rev. George D. Smith to be our rector. Fr. Smith formally accepted the call on January 11 and his appointment was announced to the parish on January 15. We most enthusiastically welcome Fr. Smith and his family to St. Mark’s and to Glen Ellyn.

Julie Carson, Eric Dinse, David Funck, Edith Jacobson, Elizabeth Lanzillo, Kristin Miller, Kim Reed, Jackie Tack, Liz Valdivia, and Ashley Woodiwiss served faithfully with me on the committee. My thanks to each of them for their untiring efforts and to all of them for their unsurpassed teamwork. Thanks also to our consultant, Susan Czolgosz; to The Rev. Clarence Langdon, Diocese of Chicago Deployment Officer; and to all of St. Mark’s staff members for their valuable assistance. And thanks to St. Mark’s parishioners for your prayers, patience, and support. May God continue to bless the ministries of those priests who shared their insights with us and who prayed for our success. And may God continue to bless the ministries of St. Mark’s as we continue our spiritual journey with the leadership of our new rector.

Bob Cardwell, Search Committee Chair

The Worship Commission consists of leaders of the various ministries involved in the planning and execution of all regular and special services held at St. Mark’s. Headed by our interim rector, the worship team in 2005 included:

• Music - Charles Snider, Parish Musician
• Altar Services - Kris Baier, Daughters of the King
• Chalice Bearers and Acolytes - Larry Nelson
• Sub Deacons - Joyce Fletcher
• Ushers - Paula Zwiebel
• Lay Readers - Rinda Allison
• Chapel Prayers - Gretchen Kenower
• Liturgy - David Fletcher

The team meets at least once during every church season to plan services for the following season and to address any needs or concerns of their various ministries.

The parish Eucharist schedule was established to include Sunday service times at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., with Christian education programs held between the two services. Christian education is not held during the summer months, and Sunday service times are at 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. at that time.

Distribution of prayer request cards throughout the pews continues. Worshipers fill out and place the cards in the offering baskets. The Daughters of the King cover the cost of the prayer cards.

Music: As the largest sub-group represented on the Worship Commission, the music ministry of 2005 is reported in a separate section of the annual report by Charles Snider.

Altar: Daughters of the King not only prepare the altar area for all services, but they are responsible for cleaning, replacing and/or repairing almost everything used during the services, including vestments, wafers, wine and candles, etc.

Chalice Bearers: They process with the altar party and assist in the distribution of Communion during the Eucharist. Larry Nelson maintains the chalice bearer schedule. Nine chalice bearers are presently on the rotation list.

Sub Deacons: The sub deacon also enters in the procession and assists by bearing a chalice. He or she places the Gospel on the altar, holds it for the clergy person who reads it, and assists in the setting of the altar. At present there are nine sub deacons.

Acolytes: Scheduling of chalice bearers and acolytes is coordinated so that family members who serve at the altar will do so at the same services whenever possible. Recruitment is a continuing process, and a new "class" begins at approximately each quarter year. Acolyte meetings are held monthly for orientation, training and communication. The focus throughout is on the opportunities acolytes have to serve both God and their church, and the responsibilities that accompany that privilege. Children as young as eight are eligible to join the program.

Acolytes are assigned to "levels," depending on their age and experience. New acolytes are inducted as Acolyte II (A-2), and are limited to bearing torches and handling the rail gates. After further training in the use of Sanctus bells and the credence table, they can be promoted to "A-1" which allows them to serve as the only acolyte in a service. A senior acolyte ("SA") is one who is a high school senior or is 18 years old. The fourth category is that of Adult Acolytes. We have a total of one adult acolyte. There are sixteen students at various stages of training and experience.

Ushers: A new innovation this year was to station ushers at side entrances to the church to greet parishioners and to guide anyone who is unfamiliar with the building. There is a continual need for more ushers, and we still need more than we have. Duties are simple but essential. Anyone interested in ushering should contact Paula Zwiebel.

Lay Readers: Thanks to Rinda Allison, several new lay readers have been trained this year and are doing a fine job.

Chapel Prayers: This year we continued the special prayer program conducted in the chapel during Communion. Worshipers with prayer requests are invited to ask for prayers at this time. Anyone who feels that they have the ability and discretion to pray for others can contact Gretchen Kenower to be scheduled for this ministry. More recently, Coventry Cathedral Litany of Reconciliation is also being prayed after the 10:30 service for the purpose of strengthening us in our journey toward corporate healing.

Liturgy: A new addition to the Worship commission this year was David Fletcher who agreed to become a member as a liturgy specialist.

Larry Nelson, Vestry Liaison

This past year has felt good to me. True, there may be fewer of us here, but there is growth and many positive things have happened. The choirs, while smaller, have remained faithful and strong and continue to be a joy, usually, with which to work.

It has always been our delight each year to include the Treble singers in the choir festival held every February at St. James Cathedral. However, this past February we experienced the loss of a wonderful parishioner and choir member, Bruce Mahon. Since his funeral was scheduled for the same day as the festival, we decided to forego attending this year out of respect for Bruce. The kids were glad to be able to have the chance to be present at the service for him.

Holy Week held its usual series of unique and beautiful services, culminating in a wonderful Easter celebration - in spite of the fact that for the first time in memory there were no available brass players. Nevertheless, the tomb was indeed empty.

After a long summer vacation the adults returned to Green Lake, Wisconsin for another wonderful retreat hosted by Ginnie, Gerrit, Bob and June. None of us can easily express to them our deep appreciation for their priceless hospitality each year.

A special treat in the fall was an organ recital presented by Philip Scriven, organist and choirmaster at Lichfield Cathedral in England (or, the Holy Land). Philip played a stunning program for about a hundred people who attended, followed by a very beautiful reception.

On the 16^th of November we were delighted to have a return visit of a dear friend of our parish, the Rev. Andrew White from St. George's Church in Baghdad. As plans continued to evolve as his visit approached it was decided that a Eucharist would be held. I, unfortunately, had a concert to play for that night at the high school, so the service was played by Ms. Rosalie Cassiday from St. John's in Naperville. The Treble Choir was asked to sing an anthem for this service, whose list of attending dignitaries continued to grow with each passing day - generals, diplomats, orthodox archbishops, a prince and princess…. Was Queen Elizabeth II not invited? Anyway, the kids were excited to sing and did a superb job. I knew they would, but it was confirmed by an email I got from Ms. Cassiday the next day in which she said, "I was completely blown away by your Treble Choir! Do they study with you?" I wasn't quite sure how to take that last part.

Some time in November we were sad to receive a notice of resignation from Merry Deutscher, our Children's Choir director. A number of varied circumstances made it necessary for her to leave her position here, but we are very grateful to her for the work she did with the children during her time with us. Our hope is that someone here in the parish will consider taking up her duties on behalf of our youngest singers.

We enjoyed another beautiful service of Lessons & Carols on Advent III with both choirs and a guest organist from First Congregational who is a closet Episcopalian, Mr. Beau Surratt. The offering from that service, some $300, was sent to St. George's in Baghdad.

With some previous funds, money from cheesecakes sales, and many other generous contributions we had plenty of funding for brass players at Christmas Eve. Our thanks to so many of you who generously contributed to this musical experience.

Now most of the work of the Search Committee has been done, and I am most grateful to Bob Cardwell and all the members for their allowing me to meet and speak with the candidates. Perhaps by the time of this Annual Meeting we will have discerned God's choice for our new Rector, and we can look forward to continuing this parish's positive growth and development.

Charles Snider

Lay Readers, sometimes also called lectors, read the appointed lessons at services and also lead the prayers of the people. This ministry is an important part of the service both to present scripture to the congregation and to lead it in prayer, but also to make the congregation aware that spoken words at worship services are provided not only by ordained ministers, but also by lay persons.

Lay readers serving at this time are Rinda and Sandy Allison, Jill and Scott Bednas, Tricia Benich, Phil Carter, Dan Conaway, Eric Dinse, David Fletcher, Johann Hille, Katherine Lawrence, Kathleen Leid, Zach Littlefield, Sue Mylander, Nancy Schmitt, Paul Sexauer, Joan Eorgoff, Ashley Woodiwiss and Jane Zaccaria. .

St. Mark’s Chapel Intercessors are a group of eight dedicated people who meet, in groups of two, in the chapel each Sunday as the congregation receives the Eucharist. They offer individual prayer for anyone desiring it for self or another. Prayers take the form of supplication or thanksgiving, knowing that God wants us to ask for our needs – but to then give thanks for all blessings bestowed.

No special talents or training are required, only the willingness of spirit to truly listen to what is being asked and to then try to be a channel of what God would have said in response to each person. Preparation for each intercessor is to pray before each service for anyone who might come forward and for the ability to listen and respond as God would direct according to each person’s need. Of course, all requests are treated with respect and confidentiality.

Those who are extremely faithful in this vital, personal ministry include May Anstee, Katherine Lawrence, Kathleen Leid, Barbara Newsom, Kim Reed, Ashley and Mary Woodiwiss. If you feel that you are being called to this ministry or would like more information, please contact Gretchen Kenower at 690-5362.

The Missions and Outreach Commission continued its work in 2005 supporting various agencies both in and out of our community. Since the operating budget funds for Missions and Outreach Outside work have been eliminated, we worked to find ways to support charitable organizations without using parish funds. The response from parishioners to our repeated requests was nothing short of miraculous:

• In August we wrapped up an "Adopt a Student" drive to benefit the 75 boys at St. Gregory School in Chicago, providing them each with a much-needed package of school supplies and funding the school "shoe fund" with over $885.
• Our relationship with PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) was strengthened through several events throughout the year. Liz Heun and Kim Toliver planned a Purse Party which raised $425 for PADS. Over 45 parishioners helped staff a night at the PADS site in August, with some providing food and others the labor to serve. During the course of the year, Kim Reed and Kristin Miller helped organize the making of bag lunches for PADS clients, ensuring that they had a nutritious lunch between overnight site visits. Through a grant from the Bill Squire Fund, Fiona Miller headed up an effort which provided small Care Packets for the PADS clients who use the services of the Warming Center. These packets provided essential care items such as hand lotion, bandages, Kleenex, toothpaste and hand wipes. Finally, we raised $125 to purchase McDonald’s Arch Cards and Phone cards for the PADS clients on Christmas Day.
• Approximately 23 parishioners participated in "Sleep Out Saturday" which benefited Bridge Communities. They braved calamitous weather to sleep outside in tents both to symbolize the plight of the homeless and to raise $1700 for the transitional housing work of Bridge.
• Through the hard work of Elizabeth Lanzillo and Joan Eorgoff, the Soup Supper and Bazaar raised over $4000. These funds were split between two charities-- DuPage Habitat for Humanity, and Bridge Communities.
• Over 60 parish individuals and families adopted 55 needy families in the Cathedral Shelter Christmas Basket drive. Our parishioners provided Christmas gifts and groceries for these 211 needy individuals from downtown Chicago, with the event organization by Ginnie Judd.

We would like to thank our many fellow St. Mark’s parishioners who provided outstanding support for these events throughout this past year. As we look ahead to 2006, it is our goal to provide even more opportunities for parishioners to put their faith into action through support of Mission and Outreach work.

The Christian Formation Team at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church facilitates Christian education and the spiritual growth of every parishioner, from young childhood through the senior years. Many parishioners offer their support to keep these ministries strong and vibrant, including teaching, reading stories to young children, working with the youth group, and in other ways. This report only highlights the many fruitful activities of Christian formation in this parish.

Adult Education: Adult Ed enjoys excellent programming, using the best teachers from within the parish and beyond, and has a loyal group of participants. We are grateful to Myrna Grant for her fine leadership in this area.

Youth Ministries: Michelle LaBonar brought enthusiasm to this ministry, with help from other adults. Blythe is the new program for middle school girls under the leadership of Tricia Benich. Confirmation classes are being conducted under Kathleen Leid's direction for those interested in being confirmed Spring of 2006.

Children's Ministries: Lamb's Chapel (ages 2 & 3) and Children's Worship (age 4 to 1st grade) is offered every Sunday during the 10:30 worship service. Sunday School classes are under the direction of Mary Woodiwiss.

A new Men’s Group has met and future directions are under consideration.

Respectfully submitted, David Fletcher

"We nurture, teach, and guide the children and families of St. Mark’s in response to God’s grace, truth, and love revealed in His Son. We seek to proclaim the Gospel, develop disciples of Jesus Christ, and strengthen His Church in this time and place."

In keeping with our Children’s Ministries mission statement, over 60 parishioners have generously offered their faithful service and loving hearts to our Sunday School, children’s worship programs, nursery, Vacation Bible School and other special events this past year. A new highlight has been incorporated into our Sunday School program. "Sing Out!" was initiated this past fall by Adrian & Trey Buchanan who continue to lead groups of our children in singing contemporary worship songs, accompanied by Trey’s guitar. Every class (K - 5^th) attends "Sing Out!" several times each semester.

Our fall program began September 11^th with a festive reception in Mahon Hall to welcome families, introduce children to their teachers and classmates, and display curricula. Fifty-four families have registered 81 children in our Nursery, Sunday School classes (through 5^th grade), and two levels of children’s worship.

On December 4^th, the St. Nicholas Parish Lunch & Gift Collection provided both fellowship and an opportunity to share with others in our local community. All parishioners were invited to a lunch provided in Mahon Hall, and donations were made to People’s Resource Center’s "Share the Spirit" program. Coordinators and servers were: Kris Baier, Barb Barajas, Amy Schilling, and Mary Woodiwiss, assisted by Cindy Glavin, Courtney Barajas, Kelsey Barajas, and Camille Woodiwiss. David Fletcher made possible the special appearance by "St. Nicholas". Special thanks also to: Miguel Briones, Dan Conaway, John Glavin, Bob Roberts, and David Schilling.

Other highlights of the past months include: Advent wreath making (grateful thanks to Reeny Linstrom for providing materials and instruction!), Advent devotional materials offered to families, Advent Bedtime Stories (in the church library on Thursday nights, with warm drinks, snacks, quilts, and middle & high school youth assisting as readers), Advent Sunday School Collection (to benefit families through Heifer International and Partners International), and the Christmas Eve Pageant (graciously directed by Lesley Arlasky, assisted by Tricia Benich, Jennifer Dorn, and Mary Woodiwiss, and enhanced by the talents of six young musicians - Abbey Flynn, Mary Caroline Benich, Christina Dorn, Alex Reed, Camille Woodiwiss, and Daniel Woodiwiss).

Our parish life together is strengthened by the dedication of so many teachers and leaders who, over the years, serve Our Lord and His Church by caring for the young ones in our midst. As a parent, I am truly grateful for the 16+ years of investments made by the St. Mark’s parish family in my children’s spiritual growth and well-being. As Director of Children’s Ministries at St. Mark’s, I am honored to work with such faithful and remarkable volunteers.

Our nursery is staffed each Sunday by Norma Cid and parish volunteers. Care is provided during the 8:00 and 10:30 worship services and the 9:15 Education Hour for children ages 6 months through 3 years. Current volunteers are: Laurie Baker, Jill Bednas, Beth Figler, Ted Figler, Leo Lanzillo, Jamie Littlefield, Zach Littlefield, Marylu Olsen, Doug Page, Liz Page, Mallory Treleaven, Liz Valdivia, Kara Ward, Kristin Ward, Ashley Woodiwiss, and Camille Woodiwiss.

Lamb’s Chapel is available for children ages 3~4 during the 10:30 service. Led by rotating pairs of volunteer teachers, children participate in a Bible story lesson, related songs and activities, and guided play. Children may stay in Lamb’s Chapel through the service, or be picked up by a parent to join in the Eucharist in the Sanctuary. This worship experience serves as an appropriate transition from the Nursery to Children’s Worship, Sunday School, and participation in worship in the Sanctuary. Lamb’s Chapel leaders for this year are: Brett & Laurie Baker, Nikki & Pat Fry, Jen Grant & Theo Grant-Funck, and Greg & Karen Halvorsen Schreck.

During the 10:30 service, children from age 4 through 1^st grade may take part in Children’s Worship. This year’s new curriculum is drawn from the text Following Jesus. Stories from the New Testament, in the context of the Church year, are told using handcrafted figures and structures. Most of the woodworking for this exceptional program is the gift of Michael Benich.

Children have an opportunity to sing, pray, draw, listen, and respond to God’s Word in a worshipful setting. Trained parish volunteers, known as Storytellers and Greeters, guide them. Children are brought to the sanctuary to join their families for the Eucharist. They receive a copy of a hand drawn bookmark to illustrate and reinforce the week’s lesson.

Those serving as Storytellers are: Joyce Fletcher, David Funck, Elizabeth Lanzillo, and Mary Woodiwiss. Greeters are: Shannon Burgess, Cindy & John Glavin, Phyllis Jenkins, Sue Mylander. Alex Reed, Elliot Reed, Kim Reed, and Paul Sexauer.

Classes are offered during Education Hour each Sunday (September through May) from 9:15 ~ 10:15. Dedicated teachers lead each grade level, Preschool through High School.

Preschool teachers employ "Hands On" Bible curriculum. Classes K~5 use materials by Discipleland, which emphasize Bible study, Bible and church history, faithful witnesses to our faith, and personal application. During the second semester, the 2nd grade class focuses on preparation for First Communion, using the text Alleluia! Amen. This course culminates in special recognition during a 10:30 worship service and a reception in May.

Children are welcome to join their appropriate class at any time during the year.

Sunday School teachers for Preschool through 5^th Grade are: Joel Erickson & Steven Harsono (Preschool), Lesley Arlasky & Lisa Baker (K/ 1^st Grade), Tricia Benich & Kathleen Leid (2^nd Grade), Laurie Kapsalis & Fiona White (3^rd Grade), May Anstee & Reeny Linstrom (4^th/ 5^th Grade).

Thank you to all who give to our children in these ministries, and to all children who take part. Look for their smiling faces on our bulletin board in the Undercroft!

~ Mary Woodiwiss

At the end of 2004 Len and Michelle LaBonar volunteered to organize the Middle School and High School youth activities. We thank them both for their service to us and our youth. Together with the Interim Rector, Michelle directed the Confirmation preparation for 24 seventh and eighth grade students. St. Mark's hosted the Deanery-wide Confirmation service on May 15th. In May we also honored six graduating High School students. Beginning in the fall Len and Michelle taught the Middle School Sunday morning class. Joel Dillion continued to lead the Senior High group. Middle school girls attend a Bible study group called Blythe which is led by Tricia Benich. Blythe provides a time to learn and a time to build community.

The teens of St. Mark's take seriously their commitment to serve in Christ's name. Throughout this year they participated in many outreach and mission activities. Through the leadership of Kristen Miller the Youth group has fixed lunches for the PADS program once a month. Many of the Youth joined with other parishioners to staff the PADS site one night in August. Many of our youth also volunteered as helpers in the Vacation Bible School program in August. Our youth joined the M & O effort to raise money for Bridge Communities by sleeping outside on November 6. Several of the "confirmation" youth began painting the Rainbow room, a job they will complete early in 2006. They continued to collect pop top tabs in support of Ronald McDonald houses. One of our youth, Mallory Holding, traveled with a Diocesan delegation to our companion Diocese of Renk (Sudan). Upon her return Mallory described her experience and presented the needs of the churches in Renk to our congregation.

As we look ahead to 2006 it is good to consider Youth Ministry in light on our mission statement: ". . .We worship. . .we seek to proclaim.. . . the gospel of Jesus Christ as we welcome, teach and serve. . ." As a parish we need to strengthen each of these commitments in what we offer to our youth. We need adults to teach, to mentor and to continue to model service among our youth. We need to provide a consistent program that will allow the youth to form a community among us AND a community among themselves. We must demonstrate even more profoundly the commitment we make at each baptism to "do all in our power to support these persons in their life in Christ" (BCP 303). We have an amazing, wonderful group of youth in our midst. They are watching and awaiting our response in the months ahead.

Parents’ Day Out (PDO) is a program offered by St. Mark’s during the school year. Children 2 to 4 years can attend one of two days, either Monday or Tuesday, for a structured playtime that includes crafts, songs, storytime as well as some free play. This year the PDO board agreed to offer emergency childcare to pre-approved YWCA mothers who need the care while they are interviewing for jobs. The program is open to the community at large; however, St. Mark’s members have priority registration. Registration for the 2006-07 program will begin in April of this year.

PDO is fortunate to have Kathy O’Rourke continue as the program director and to have a returning staff of dedicated teachers: Miguel Briones, Norma Cid, Melody Mordini and Cindy Glavin. The PDO program is overseen by a board made up of St. Mark’s parishioners: Doris McCarraher, Elizabeth Lewis, Jennifer Dorn, Lesley Arlasky and Kim Reed. After many years as a faithful board member, Jennifer Dorn is stepping down. PDO is currently looking for an interested parishioner to serve on this board. This ministry falls under the Children’s Education Commission.

Currently, both days of the program are full, with 19 children attending each day, and there is also a substitute list. For more information, you can contact Kathy O’Rourke at 790-1229 or any of the above- mentioned board members.

Submitted by Kim Reed

During 2005 parishioners provided meals for 5 different families who needed assistance because of new babies, surgery, or illness. Thanks to all who have participated during the past year. Your help and home cooking were much appreciated. Please contact Liz Valdivia if you would like to be added to the meals ministry list or if you have suggestions for 2006.

The Communications group was established following the February 2004 Vestry Retreat to enrich communication of events and activities of St. Mark’s. Co-chairs are Rinda Allison and Ginnie Judd.

Jen Grant, as editor of the PostMark, continues to do a wonderful job putting out an informative, timely, and inspiring newsletter each month.

And of course, we must thank Wilma Linde, queen of all things printed, and her team who fold and address (who refer to themselves as the St. Mark’s Folding Machine): Lois Baker, Audrey Halbeck, Bettye Hille, Betty Morrison, Sue Mylander, Holly Nelson, Anna Panor, and Marie Sutherland, without whose devotion we would not get a printed copy of the PostMark (or the weekly bulletin). This ministry is a crucial one to the communication of information to our parish.

New this year, as a result of an early August planning meeting of the leaders of the parish organizations, is an online parish calendar, linked to our website. Myrna Grant guided us to the free software, Bob Cardwell quickly got it into place, and the office volunteers maintain the information. We ask that planners of events check the online calendar to be aware of what else is happening that might influence their plans.

At Revd Sheila’s request, we purchased a banner announcing the Christmas schedule, which Miguel Briones put up on our property along Main Street. The information on the sign is generic enough that, unless we change service times, we should be able to use again next year.

Other areas of the communications group continue as before:

Sarah Adler has done a great job creating the role of liaison with the media in 2004 and has set up contacts with the local print and radio press. In 2005 we had press releases on Lenten services, Holy Week schedule, the organ recital in October, the special service with Canon Andrew White for those suffering in Iraq, the Soup Supper/Holiday Bazaar, the Festival of Lessons and Carols, and the Christmas service schedule. We would like to increase our presence in the local press in the coming year with no-cost articles. We ask that parish groups write their own releases, which we will format and send to the media. As of this writing, Sarah is ready to step down as media liaison to spend more time with her newborn son, so we are looking for her replacement.

Rinda Allison maintains the posting of news and events on the two main bulletin boards: Hillside entrance and office entrance.

Vestry meeting (unofficial) notes are posted on the bulletin boards and published in the PostMark to improve communication of that news to the parish.

An old Hymn Board found in her office in 2004 inspired Mary Woodiwiss to conceive the idea of an announcements board for upcoming and ongoing events. The board, found on the wall by the steps leading from the Narthex to the Library, is maintained by the office volunteers, and more recently, by Mary (thank you, Mary!).

New communications members are welcome. We especially need a media liaison as well as "reporters" to compose stories about upcoming or past events that we could submit to the local press. Please contact Ginnie or Rinda if you are interested.

Parish Life accomplished much in the year 2005. The first initiative was to hone the process of welcoming newcomers to St. Mark’s. Rev. Ferguson and Martha Sexauer worked to ensure that all visitors were welcomed, and that contact was made in written and verbal form within a short period of time thereafter. Parish Life and its volunteers then organized two newcomer brunches that were well attended. Rev. Ferguson and Martha Sexauer spent time discussing the next steps to truly engaging new potential members through a host program, that should be implemented in early 2006. Parish Life led the Lent Event, which sought to raise $10,000 through monetary donations and pledged "services". The event made well over $10,000, and the parish celebrated with an ice cream social in the spring. In the summer, the picnic was held at Herrick Lake and many attended. Games were provided, the food was delicious, and the fellowship enhanced a great summer for St. Mark’s. Volunteers led the Chili Supper in the fall and everyone attending enjoyed the games, fellowship, and food. Parish Life assisted at the Soup Supper and Bazaar right after Thanksgiving. Parish Life had goals in 2005 to assist and enrich the new and existing programs at St. Mark’s and to create vital fundraising opportunities to move the parish forward. The goals for 2006 will involve building on programs from 2005, enhancing the newcomers program, and formalizing subcommittees within Parish Life to enhance and grow the parish.

St. Anne’s Chapter

The Daughters of the King is an international order for women who are communicants of the Episcopal Church, churches in communion with it, or churches in the Historic Episcopate. Members are committed to fulfilling their Baptism Covenant through prayer, service and evangelism. St. Anne’s Chapter meets on the third Monday of every month except for July and December. Members of the St. Anne’s chapter are most visible as they serve the parish by preparing the altar for all worship services. Other ongoing services to the parish include decorating the church for Christmas and Easter, providing receptions for funerals, and serving as liaisons to wedding parties for all weddings held at the church. In 2005 the Chapter also designed and paid for the printing of the prayer request cards found in the pew racks. All women of the parish are welcome to attend our meetings which are held in the library on the third Monday of each month. For more information, please contact May Anstee (889-0933)

In February 2005, 25 women of St. Mark’s informally met together to discuss practical ways we could connect with each other, welcome newcomers and strengthen the experience of community among us. As a result, a loosely organized group, Women to Women (W2W), began actively organizing activities to bring women of all ages together. We have met together for weekday meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays during the school year. Additionally an average of 30 women of the parish attended each of five soup/salad suppers held this summer and fall. W2W organized the annual Women’s retreat in October attended by 21 parishioners. The participants of W2W actively supported the Bazaar and Soup Supper in November by making crafts, soup and working at the Bazaar. Under the auspices of W2W three receptions were held to welcome the newly baptized and their families into the parish. W2W also sponsored two beloved St. Mark’s traditions in December: the Advent brunch and the ornament exchange. All the women of the parish are invited to participate in the W2Wactivities.

Our new building performed very well during 2005 with the exception of a bad sensor in the radiant heating system which caused the constant circulation of hot water throughout that system. It was repaired along with a change to the flow of hot water and all is well again.

However, changes in the outside temperature which call for more or less heat still take time to correct in a radiant system.

I appreciate all your help in treating our facilities with care and recruit Sunday School teachers and parents alike to stress the importance of good manners and respect of our buildings. It costs money to keep repairing damage and ultimately affects the purchase of other maintenance products and needs. Thank you in advance.

Special thank you to:

John Braly and all the people and groups for the maintenance of the landscape. It sure kept our grounds looking beautiful last year. Keep up the good work!

Michael Benich for the numerous repairs to the inside and outside of our buildings.

Miguel for all the miscellaneous chores over and above the call of duty.

Rev. Sheila Ferguson for her leadership and pastoral care of her flock.

All those who silently donated their time and talents to improve the appearance of our campus.

May God bless you all.

With your help, and all of your help, we can make St. Mark's Church stand out in our community.

John Baker, Facilities Manager

NEW MEMBERS: 34

TRANSFERRED OUT OR INACTIVE: 21

TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS: 248

AVERAGE SUNDAY ATTENDANCE: 180

CHILDREN AND YOUTH: 149

Nursery 19

Preschool - 5^th grade 62

Middle School 39

High School 29

Ian Blake Wollstadt-Gillespie

Paul James Wollstadt-Gillespie

Andrew Stephen Novak

Sarah Michelle LaBonar

Laura Taylor Hess

Logan Daniel Repetowski

Megan Lynn Gilpin

Matthew Thomas Adler

Melissa Merrill Black

William Thomas Dailey

Vivienne Jeanne Winter

Hailey Ann Treleaven

Ellen Young

Bruce A. Mahon

Barbara H. Bates

Jacqueline V. Foersom

Aurilla R. Lattan

William L. Edwards

Marilyn Wintermute *

Olga Maurin *

George Achett

Priya Verghese

Aaron Robert Thomas Bass

Brooke Baier

Arul Sundaram

Emily Allison

George Witte *

Carolyn Jones *

Kevin Thurston *

Annelise Bowman *

Alan Kruse *

Mary Cline *

Phoebe Benich

Carolyn Carson

Abigail Flynn

Andrew Flynn

Anna Heun

Garrett Hookham

Alexandra Kapsalis

Grant Kramer

Sean Linstrom

Cole Mariottini

Gemma Miller

Elliott Reed

Phillip Shaw

Jeffrey Treleaven

Mallory Treleaven

Gregory Walor

Abigail White

Margaret Wiermanski

Camille Woodiwiss

David Zaccari

Anna Panor

Sarah Adler

Jeff Hochstetler

George Achett (Received)

* Non-parishioners