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HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF ST. MARK Those interested in membership may indicate their desire on a worship registration form contained in the bulletin, or they may contact the pastor. New Members are received two times a year, on the first Sunday of April and on the first Sunday of November. Two informational sessions precede the formal reception. The first session focuses upon our Lutheran identity and the second session focuses upon the organization and structure of St. Mark and its ministry. Further information may be received in individual sessions with the pastor.
EXPECTATIONS OF MEMBERSHIP Since the Church is not intended to be a social club but rather a means for equipping disciples to carry out the mission of proclaiming the forgiveness, love and mercy of God, there are expectations of those who wish to become a part of this community. These expectations are held up not to make ourselves right before God or to determine who is “saved” and who is not, but rather they are held up to show us how to respond as faithful disciples to what God has first done for us. Since our life together begins in worship and in the Word, it is expected that members of this congregation will strive to be in worship more than two Sundays a month and that regular study of the scriptures and prayer is a part of each member’s life. Since life is given and lived in community, it is expected that members of this congregation will be a part of some gathering, formal or informal, of St. Mark people outside of Sunday morning worship for fellowship and/or for service. Since life consists not only of receiving but also of giving, it is expected that members of this congregation will share their time and talent in at least one area of service done in the name of the Lord. It is also expected that a percentage (the Biblical standard is 10% or a tithe) of household income is shared for Christ’s ministry in this congregation and around the world.
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