“Since 1939” echoes in the hallowed halls of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. It began humbly enough. St. Mark’s held its first service in a neighborhood theater in October 1939. Imagine a makeshift sanctuary. Before 1939 ended, St. Mark’s found its first priest and many volunteers. Preliminary plans for a church building also emerged.
The next year, 1940, marked a turning point. Bishop Quin broke ground on August 8 for a church. It was located on 3816 Bellaire Boulevard. On September 29, the cornerstone was laid. By 1941, the building was dedicated. St. Mark’s made the transition from mission to parish.
From that time, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church grew. It played a prominent role in the community’s life. In 1959, St. Mark’s established a Day School for pre-schoolers. This school has now grown into St. Mark’s Episcopal School. It educates more than 400 girls and boys. They range from age two through eighth grade.
St. Mark’s still resides in its original church building. The campus has grown. This is due to various building projects. The original church building was beautifully refurbished in 2012.
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church is a parish of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. Episcopalians believe that Holy Scriptures are the revealed word of God. Human authors of the Scripture were inspired. The Church interprets them under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds are foundational tenets of the faith. The Catechism in the back of the Book of Common Prayer contains the teachings and beliefs of the Episcopal Church. Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist are the two primary Sacraments. Christ gave them to the Church.
St. Mark’s has ministered to the people of Houston since 1939. It is located in the West University/Bellaire area. St. Mark’s is a diverse, inclusive community. They seek to transform lives.
For seventy-five years St. Mark’s has been a source of Worship, Welcome, Outreach and Formation. This is for all of God’s people. It is in response to baptisms. It is also in response to the belief that they are to be a light to the world. St. Mark’s collaborates with the Bishop and diocese. They work with other Episcopal churches. They also collaborate with many service organizations. The goal is to accomplish their mission. They seek to serve their city, state, and world. St. Mark’s is a church full of past accomplishment and future potential.
The outreach program of St. Mark’s helps people and organizations that might need assistance. Programs might include holding a coat drive. They distribute the coats to needy children at public schools. They may adopt families at Christmas. They furnish food and gifts. They hope to grow closer to God. They do this as they serve those in need.
A constant supply of food bags are available. These bags are filled with non-perishable items. They are given to people who come by the church. They express a need for such items. This ministry serves those in need. Church members cook and serve breakfast. This is on the first, third and fifth Fridays of the month. Other community organizations use the facilities. They do the same on second and fourth Fridays.
Remember St. Mark’s. It is a beacon of faith and service. It continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of a changing world.