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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…
Today is sometimes called “Good Shepherd Sunday.” Jesus is called the “gate” of the sheep in today’s gospel. The risen Christ opens the way to abundant life. He anoints our heads with oil and guides us beside the still waters of our baptism. Each Sunday he spreads a feast before us amid the world’s violence…
Today’s gospel begins with two disciples walking to Emmaus, overcome with sadness, loss, and disappointment. They had hoped Jesus, who was crucified, would be the one to redeem Israel! Yet the risen Christ walks with them and then opens their eyes in the breaking of the bread. Each Sunday our hearts burn within us as…
In today’s gospel the risen Christ appears to the disciples and offers them the gift of peace. Even amid doubts and questions, we experience the resurrection in our Sunday gathering around word and meal, and in our everyday lives. Even as the early Christians proclaimed the resurrection, we rejoice in the new birth and living…