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Akuma grew up in St. Mark’s nursery! She recalls that as an early teen, she wanted to work in the nursery. When an opening for Nursery Attendant became available, her grandmother (St. Mark Member Kristina Tamm-Finnerud) told her about it. Akuma quickly applied, was interviewed and was hired. She has been on the job about…
Though the word trinity is not found in the scriptures, today’s second reading includes the apostolic greeting that begins the liturgy: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. In the gospel Jesus sends his disciples forth to baptize in the…
Pentecost derives its name from the Judean festival celebrating the harvest and the giving of the law on Mount Sinai fifty days after Passover. Fifty days after Easter, we celebrate the Holy Spirit as God’s presence within and among us. In Acts the Spirit arrives in rushing wind and flame, bringing God’s presence to all…
In today’s readings the risen Christ ascends into heaven, and his followers are assured that the Spirit will empower them to be witnesses throughout the earth. The disciples were told to not gaze up into heaven to look for Jesus (Acts 1:11); we find his presence among us as we proclaim the word and share…
Jesus does not abandon his followers. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus comes to abide with his disciples of every generation. As Pentecost draws near, we are reminded that the risen Christ dwells in us as the Spirit of truth. We receive this Spirit in baptism and pray that in our gathering around the Lord’s table…
Remembering the Life of Haldor Asbjørn Finnerud Haldor Asbjørn Finnerud, 88, passed peacefully at his home in Tumwater, WA on March 29, 2026. Born December 12, 1937, in the municipality of Kongsberg, Norway, to Ole Finnerud and Grete (Bjerknes) Finnerud. Haldor belonged to a large family with many cousins, but he wanted to see the…
As we continue to celebrate the fifty days of Easter, today’s gospel includes Jesus’ promise that he goes to prepare a place for his followers in his Father’s house. Our baptism commissions us to share Jesus’ mission in the world. As 1 Peter reminds us, we are a holy people, called to proclaim the one…
On Sunday, May 17, we are excited to have our new Southwestern Washington Synod Bishop Keith Marshall visit St. Mark. Bishop Marshall will preach during worship and be available at coffee hour to share updates about the synod and the ELCA. Rev. Keith Marshall was elected as our new Bishop at the 2025 Synod Assembly…
On Sunday, May 3, we welcome Sarah Rejman, the founder of Kafika House, and Jean Wahlstrom, retired ELCA missionary in Tanzania. They will offer a brief introduction about the ministry during Sunday announcements before the worship service begins and give a fuller presentation during coffee hour, where we’ll also enjoy a taste of some Tanzanian…
Gavin Ferry, 17 year-old Junior at North Thurston High School, has been hired as the new Media Technician for St. Mark Lutheran Church. He learned of the job opportunity from his friend and fellow St. Mark member Darrin Labensky. Gavin said he talked it over with his family and they encouraged him to apply. Gavin…