Click Here for the November Worship Schedule
First Sunday
Christ the King
Last Sunday after Pentecost
November 23, 2025
Services at 8:30 am, 10:30 am, and 12:30 pm
We will livestream through YouTube during the 10:30 service.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/@stmarksepiscopalnc/streams
| | Upcoming Services & Events | |
November 23 - 8:30 am, 10:30 am, and *12:30 pm
November 30 - 9:30 am * 12:30 pm
December 6 - 9:00 am to 3:00 pm St Mark's Holiday Market
December 7 - 9:30 am (St Mark's Annual Meeting)
December 14 - 9:30 am (children's Christmas pageant) *12:30 pm
December 21 - 8:30 am and 10:30 am
December 24 - 4:30 pm *7:00 pm and 10:30 pm
December 28 - 8:30 am and 10:30 am *12:30 pm
January 4 - 8:30 am and 10:30 am
*Please note our 12:30 pm and 7:00 pm services are in Spanish
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Your weekly update on the status of our pledges:
The General Fund - this pledge is important because it forms the basis for our annual budget, and represents the funds available for our services, ministries, buildings and grounds, administration, and outreach. At this time, our pledge balance is as follows:
54 pledges totaling $203073.00
Capital Campaign Fund - This is a 5-year campaign dedicated to paying on the principal of our Rafters mortgage. This fund is important as the capital campaign account is one of the key components of our successful renegotiation of the mortgage in the coming year - it demonstrates our commitment and ability to pay back the borrowed amount. At this time, our pledge balance is as follows:
28 pledged totaling $188731.00, of which we have currently received $39513.00
| | Pledge envelopes are ready for pick up in Founders Hall. | | |
Christmas Pageant
Join us for our pageant practice this Sunday (November 23) during the 9:30 hour. We will be meeting in the old fellowship hall. Children of all ages are encouraged to participate. The next practice will be on December 7, during the annual meeting. The pageant is during the service on December 14. If your child can only attend on December 14, they are still welcome to participate in the pageant. Please have all children to the church at 8:45 on December 14th to get dressed and ready for the pageant.
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Non-Perishable Food items
We will be collecting food items for Ranson Middle School Families in need. Please bring your items by Sunday November 23rd where they will be placed on the altar and blessed!
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2025 Vestry Candidates
we will vote for three at the annual meeting
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I am a lifelong Charlotte resident and have been shaped by the Episcopal tradition since childhood. My husband and I became members of St. Mark’s in November 2024, and over the past year I have highly enjoyed becoming involved in our church family through W.I.N.E. gatherings, attending the Rector’s Ball & church coffee hours, as well as serving on the Taste of Barbados planning committee.
Professionally, I serve as a Media Coordinator and School Librarian with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. In this role, I draw on skills in instructional design, program planning, information literacy, and technology integration to support students, staff, and families. I have held various leadership and organizational roles within education and bring experience in collaborative decision-making, resource stewardship, community-building, and strategic planning.
I feel called to serve on the vestry to help St. Mark’s expand our ministries and deepen our presence in the community. Christian formation and education is also important in supporting and nourishing the faith of our church parishioners and families. This is one particular area that I hope to develop throughout the upcoming year. As a member of the vestry, I will maintain focus on the Parrish’s mission and work to continue the growth of our church by contributing my strengths in communication, organization, educational leadership, and program coordination.
| | I began attending St. Marks in 2008 and became a regular member in 2013. My wife and I were married here in 2016, and through St. Marks I was warmly welcomed into the Episcopal tradition. My wife was bom and raised in this church and grew up in its youth program, and it's my hope that our two young daughters will experience that same sense of growth, faith, and belonging. I have served on the Hospitality Committee since 2015 and the Finance Committee since 2019. I am passionate about empowering our youth, strengthening the church's financial foundation, and renewing the fellowship and community that have made St. Mark's such a special place for generations. I look forward to sharing my experience, ideas, and perspective and serving in a leadership role to help guide our church. | | |
My journey with St. Mark’s began in 2019 when my wife Carrie and I were searching for a church home. We immediately felt welcomed and knew it was the right place for us. A few years later our daughter Mavis was born and baptized here, making St. Mark’s an even more special part of our family’s life.
From assisting with wedding setups to supporting events like Taste of Barbados and lending a hand on the church grounds, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication that goes into making St. Mark’s such a special place.
I have a deep appreciation for all the hard work that goes into St. Mark’s, and I feel called to take on a larger role. After speaking with several vestry members, serving on the vestry feels like the right next step for me. I’m excited for the chance to help support the continued growth and mission of our church community.
Thank you,
Mike Coburn
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Along with his wife, Allison, Brett Rhinehardt has been a member of SMEC for nearly 25 years. All four of their children were baptized here. Over those decades, Brett has shown his commitment to this parish by serving on vestry, teaching children’s chapel, Sunday school, youth formation, serving on a rector search committee, finance committee, overseeing the annual financial audit, and creating the business case that convinced the Diocesan Standing Committee to approve the building of The Rafters. Outside of SMEC, he has served on a number of boards, including a Mecklenburg County Development Board, US EPA Standards Development Board, Carolina Recycling Association Board, and the SOAR Foundation (an educational non-profit with $32 million in assets), among others.
More importantly than all of the above is my commitment to this community, this church, and my church family. I believe my role on vestry demands active participation. That means speaking up, asking questions, offering alternate opinions, and doing the work and research necessary to support SMEC. This church has a long tradition of leaders stepping up and serving on vestry, and I commit to continue that. My church family deserves the best I have to offer, working on your behalf.
| | My family has attended St. Mark's since about 2003/2004. Over the last two decades, I have served St. Mark's in a variety of ways, including Vestry, Newcomer's Committee, teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, serving as Stewardship chair, and generally causing mischief when available. As a church, we are facing certain challenges that at times may seem overwhelming. In the coming months we will have a search for a new rector, set a new budget, and continue to address the expenses associated with the Rafters building. Whether or not I am elected to serve on the Vestry, one of my suggestions and goals for the church is to refocus. Focusing on our members, growing our church, and nourishing the spiritual lives of our congregation can only assist in helping to meet our challenges. This year, we have had to focus on financial realities; there is no question that had to occur. However, we cannot continue to be a church focused on finances; without maintaining our members and growing our congregation, we run the risk of decreasing our numbers. People come to St. Mark's for the innate sense of spirit and warm fellowship. We would benefit from convening a true parish council, refreshing some of our committees, and developing additional adult education options. While I know the tasks set for us seem daunting, I am also excited for the future and the opportunities we have at St. Mark's. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 | | |
My name is Rick Cardenas, and I feel honored to be considered for the Vestry. At Davidson College Presbyterian Church, I was privileged to serve as Deacon for three years in addition to five years of service on the Worship, Fellowship, and Property committees. In support of our Wednesday Night Dinner fellowships, I managed the groups of church members who volunteered to set tables, provide drinks and food service, and clean up. This opportunity allowed me to have on going contact and build relationships with the church community in a way that provided valuable insight into the needs and concerns of the church. Additionally, I served as the Youth Advisor for 15 years.
My prior service plus my knowledge of IT, technology, and buildings & grounds will be valuable to the Vestry at Saint Mark's. After prayerful consideration, I feel led to share my time and knowledge with our faith community.
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I was raised in the Baptist tradition, but my spiritual journey led me to the Episcopal Church in 2011 where I finally felt at home with my faith. My son, Anthony, and I found St. Mark’s in 2022 when we moved to Charlotte and it was the first church we visited. The immediate warmth and welcome we received from the entire congregation cemented that this was home for us. Since then, I have become increasingly involved in the church community from WINE to currently serving on the Garden Guild and working with Flyin’ Lions.
I would be honored to be considered as a vestry candidate as someone deeply committed to the mission, growth, and spiritual life of St. Mark’s. I value the balance of tradition and openness that defines our community. My background in finance and analytics provides a strong foundation for thoughtful and responsible decision-making, helping to ensure that our resources are used wisely to support the mission and ministries. I bring a collaborative spirit, a heart for service, and experience in leadership, communication, and strategic planning. I believe in listening deeply, fostering connection, and helping guide our church as a place where all feel as welcomed, supported, and spiritually nourished as I have. It would be a privilege to help continue the good work of the vestry in strengthening our shared ministry and mission.
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I want to serve on the St. Mark’s Vestry because I love this church and its people to the depths of my soul.
I love that this congregation believes, really and truly, that we are all beloved children of God called to do His work faithfully and cheerfully.
I love that we carry each other forward and lift each other up.
I love that we show up – for outreach, for fellowship, for La Escuelita San Marcos, for Ranson Middle School, for Flyin' Lion Ministries, and for each other, no matter what.
I love that we can't seem to pare down the weekly prayer list printed in our bulletin, no matter how many times we announce that we're going to.
I love that it takes us a full five minutes to pass the peace.
I love that after I turn into our driveway, my shoulders drop a little bit for each 10-yard span I drive up the hill.
I love that our little historic church is home to a loveliness of ladybugs, a handful of lizards, an occasional swarm of honeybees, and the spirits of all who came before us.
And I love that we jump in with both feet, because we know we can, with God's help.
I've been a tithing member of St. Mark's for more than a decade. I served on Vestry once before, helping to lead us through a rector retirement, a pandemic, and construction of the Rafters. Since then, I have retired from a long career, seen the passing of my father, and seen my daughter off to college. I am rested and restored after these life experiences, and I'm ready to bring that energy back to church.
The next couple of years at St. Mark's will be filled with possibility. Our church has always risen to meet the challenges of transition and emerged strong. With the Holy Spirit by our side, Jesus in the driver's seat, and God in our hearts and in our ears, our future is bright. I would love to be part of leading us there.
| | Dec 6th - Christmas Bazaar! Come shop with our 29 vendors! | | | | |
Frasier Fir Wreaths and Trees
Buy your fresh, amazing Frasier Fir wreaths and trees from Stone Mountain Farms, 100% of profits go to La Escuelita San Marcos!
Wreaths and trees can be picked up from St. Mark's on Sunday, Nov 30th. Orders close on Monday, Nov 24th.
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St Mark's Prayer List
If you would like a name on the prayer list, contact Marcia or Jan Daubener. If you would also like a prayer sent out to Pastoral Care/prayer chain, let Jan know. Starting in September, names will remain on the list for 4 weeks, unless specified otherwise. You may extend (or decrease!) the time by notifying Marcia. We will continue to have folks on the list long term at their request, and will continue to read names aloud on the 3rd Sunday of each month. If you have questions please contact Marcia in the office or Jan (jandaubener@gmail.com).
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Daughters of the King
Our vow is for prayer service and evangelism, and confidentiality is paramount to our prayer vow. We can pray for you confidentially for anything you do not wish to be put on the public prayer list. We pray daily for many people including our weekly church prayer list.
Reach out to Marcia at marcia.kephart@stmarksnc.org or call the office to be added to our prayers.
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Women's Retreat 2026
Women's Retreat 2026 is Full
Thanks to all who have signed up for the 2026 retreat, we are full! Please get your deposit in by 11-30-25 and final payment by 12-30-25, note that all payments are non-refundable. If you are still interested, Jackie McWhorter will keep a waiting list. Her phone number is 704-920-8922 and email is mcwhorterjackie1@gmail.com. Thanks to all who signed up, we are going to have wonderful time!
| | You can submit your 2026 annual pledge via this link. | | |
Capital Campaign
On Sunday, July 20, the vestry of St. Mark’s announced a five year capital campaign to raise money toward the principal on the Rafters mortgage.
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Please use the below link for all of your giving needs.
You can select where your donation will go via drop-down.
(You can set up recurring payments via this link)
If you need help with this, call or stop by the office during office hours.
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2025 Thanksgiving Pies
Pick up is Tuesday Nov 25th from 3pm-6pm, or Wed Nov 26th Noon-6pm
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Ola Amigos!
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding way to get engaged with the life our church family? Our bi-lingual preschool, La Escuelita San Marcos, is in need of volunteers to help out in the classrooms as a teacher’s assistant. No special training is required, you just need to enjoy helping young students to learn and grow! Inquire at the church office, or see Mike Tinsley (704) 517-0299 for more information.
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Urgent need for Stitchers
We have exhausted our supply.
If you or a friend can knit or crochet and would be willing to help us, please contact jandaubener@gmail.com
Yarn is available in founder's hall
We need stuffed animal, baby blankets and Prayer Shawls
Please....no plastic attachments that could be a choking risk.
| | Forward Movement is a ministry of the Episcopal Church inspiring disciples and empowering evangelists. Multiple resources offering daily devotions, prayers,Bible studies, and much more to better equip and support people in their walk with Jesus Christ. | | | | | |
Ranson update
Needed: Gift cards any amount for students.
Needed: small snack bags for students
(Students no longer need uniforms at this time)
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W.I.N.E.
(Women in Need of Entertainment)
December 15th, Candy and Robin in the Rafters, bring food and or wine to share.
This is our annual Ornament exchange!
This event is open to all the women of our church.
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Welcome to the St Mark's Marketplace!
This is a fundraiser for St Mark's! We will gladly post items you have for sale, and in return, the proceeds will be donated to the church!
So to get started identify items for sale. They could be kitchenware, books, clothing/shoes, yard care items IN GOOD REPAIR! (We should not be the last stop for items before they go to the landfill!). No animals!
Send picture, description, and sale price, along with your contact info to jandaubener@gmail.com. Jan and Marcia will coordinate posting.
Items will then be posted in News of the Week for 4 weeks. Please notify Jan if item sold before that time.
The buyer will contact the seller directly and make arrangements for pickup (we recommend the church as pickup site).
All Sales are FINAL. Buyer has responsibility to inspect items before purchase.
The seller agrees to donate the amount of the sale to St Mark’s general fund via cash or check. If you donate by check, make check to St Mark's. Write Marketplace in the 'for' line.
Then put donation IN AN ENVELOPE and label "Marketplace." You may give to Marcia, leave in her box in the mail room, or put in collection plate. (If you forget, there will be envelopes in he Pastoral Care box in the mailroom).
Jan will follow up with sellers and keep a record of items sold. Items that have been sold will be removed so new items can be added.
Please DO NOT LEAVE ITEMS AT THE CHURCH for pick up. Seller and buyer should meet and complete the sale in person (we do not have space to store items for later pickup).
Contact Jan if you have questions.
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Rollator! Made by Medline. Seat, storage area, folds for transport.
Price $100
Contact Jan Daubener at jandaubener@gmail.com
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Ministries of St Mark's
Worship – Tracy Tinsley
Music - Alex Ancona
Outreach- Lynnda Jordan
Daughters of the King – Marcia Kephart
Welcome – Julie Hornsby
Coffee Hour – Debbie Heggen
Flyin’ Lion – Debbie Heggen
Buildings and Grounds- Scott Hundertmark
Garden Guild - Robin Canchola
Altar Guild- Doreen Mondlak/Fiona Brown
Ushers- Patrick Wiley
Flowers- Emelie Colmery
Stewardship- Libby James
Hospitality – Kelly Pope
Pastoral Care – Jan Daubener/ Valerie Doolittle
Fundraising - Dawn Middleton
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Need some St. Mark's Swag?
Pick a Polo Shirt, T-shirt, Hoodie, Onesie Male and Female styles available
Order HERE
Please see Candy Sullivan with any questions.
| | Morning Prayer Via Zoom Monday Wednesday and Friday 8:30-9:00 am | | | | |
Bulletin for
November 23, 2025
Christ the King
Last Sunday after Pentecost
Services at 8:30 am, 10:30 am, and 12:30 pm
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