• Brandon Leonard •
• Originally published January 2, 2009 at 4:51 p.m., updated January 2, 2009 at 4:51 p.m.

Q: Please give a brief history of the church:

A: St. Mark's had its first worship service on March 21, 1954.

Twenty-five people came forward that Sunday and committed themselves to building a new church.

A building committee was formed in July 1954, and Sunday school met for the first time Aug. 1, 1954.

Sunday school and worship services were held in the new facility on Sept. 11, 1955. Groundbreaking for the present sanctuary was held on July 15, 1973, with the consecration of the new building on April 18, 1976.

Thirteen pastors have served St. Mark's since the first service in 1954. Since that time, St. Mark's has provided ministry to our congregation and our community in numerous ways, including worship, prayer, music, Christian education and assistance to the needy of our community.

Q: What activities do you have through the week?

A: On the second Sunday of each month, we have a potluck luncheon following the worship service. It's open to the public.

On Tuesdays at 7 p.m., we conduct a bilingual Bible study in Spanish and English. We have just finished studying the book of John, and beginning in January, we will study the book of Matthew. Call the church office for more information.

On Wednesdays, we start with a women's Bible study at 9:30 a.m. This group will begin a study of Romans the first week of January. Call the church office for the location.

There is a fourth-day women's Emmaus group that meets in the church office at 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Also, a Bible study, which is open to men and women of all ages, meets in the sanctuary at 7 p.m.

The study is based on a book by John McArthur, titled "12 Ordinary Men" and shows biblical as well as extra-biblical writings about the Apostles' ministries.

Also our children meet Wednesday. The program, called Kids for Christ, explores various topics and is geared toward children.

At 1 p.m. each Friday, the ladies get together for fun, food and fellowship.

They play dominoes and other board games, chat and eat together. This event is open to all ladies who would like to attend regardless of denominational affiliation. Call the church for the event location.

Also, once a month, St. Mark's conducts a "Date Night" so that parents can get away for dinner or whatever knowing that their children are in a protected environment while they are out.

At present, this event is open only to church members.

The United Methodist Women meets once a month at 10 a.m. on the fourth Saturday.

Q: Are you working on any projects? If so, describe them.

A: Our most exciting project is on Feb. 4, as St. Mark's hosts the African Children's Choir. This talented bunch of children will be performing for one show only at 7 p.m. The concert is open to the public and free. A free-will offering will be taken.

These children from Uganda have performed with Josh Groban on American Idol, the Tonight Show and one of the Gaither Homecoming videos.

Q: How are you involved in the community?

A: St. Marks is involved in the community in numerous ways, including support for Victoria Christian Assistance Ministries, the Mission of Hope and other organizations.

Each fall St. Marks hosts A Day in the Park, where Gospel, praise, choirs and other musical groups gather at Riverside Park for a day of food and music. The event is open to the public.

If you have a praise band, choir or group that would like to perform in 2009, please contact the church office. If you would like to assist in publicity or booking, please contact us also.

Q: If I'm new to the community, what sets you church apart from others in the area?

A: St. Marks is a church that relies on the Bible to provide guidance as we live out our lives today. We are a congregation of faith seeking understanding in today's world. We have the best praise band around. It can be said that we truly "rock" gathering around the rock that is Jesus Christ. We are truly a family-oriented congregation where you are made to feel like you're home from the moment you first come in.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to share about your church?

A: If you are unsure of your faith or if you think what Jesus Christ and God promised is too good to be true, come and see! Life in Christ isn't easy, but this family of believers will be there every step of the way walking beside you.

Where We Worship is designed to introduce readers to the area's churches. To be included in this feature, send the church's name, address, phone number, e-mail address and the contact person's name to faith@vicad.com, by fax to 361-574-1220 or mail to Victoria Advocate, Attention Faith, P.O. Box 1518 Victoria, TX 77902.

• SERVICE TIMES

  Sunday: 9:15 a.m., Sunday school; 10:30 a.m., morning worship; 6:30 p.m., prayer and praise

  Pastor: Chuck Smith

  Contact: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon; 3310 N. Ben Jordan St., Victoria, TX 77901; 361-575-8206

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