Council Corner: July 2026

Dear Friends in Christ,

As we move through the heart of summer, I am reminded that this season often brings a different

rhythm to church life. Families are traveling, schedules shift, and many are enjoying vacations, time

outdoors, and moments of rest and renewal.

At first glance, the summer months can sometimes feel “quiet” within the church. Attendance may

look a little different from week to week, meetings may slow down, and familiar faces may be away.

But even in these quieter months, the inner workings of St. Mark’s continue to move forward —

both within our church walls and out in the community.

Much of the work of the church happens faithfully and steadily behind the scenes. Worship

continues to be planned and supported. Committees continue their work. Property needs are being

addressed. Outreach is growing. Fellowship is being planned. Leaders and volunteers continue to

give their time, energy, and care so that St. Mark’s remains a place of welcome, service, and faithful

ministry.

At our June Council meeting, the May Council Meeting Minutes were approved. I would like to

highlight several items from those minutes and recognize the ongoing work connected to them:

● The tech station build has been completed, and gift cards were purchased for Alex and Jon in

appreciation of their work.

● Website updates have been completed. Council and Worship & Music also discussed the ongoing

need for a dedicated photographer, or a small group of photographers, to help capture the life and

ministry of St. Mark’s.

● Planning is underway for St. Mark’s 75th Anniversary. A committee has been formed, and Betsy

Copps is serving as chairperson. This milestone will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our

history, honor those who have helped shape our congregation, and look ahead to the future of our

ministry together.

● The summer picnic is scheduled for August 30. The Fellowship Committee will help coordinate

this special time of fellowship as we say goodbye to summer and welcome the fall season.

● Mandy Weir has been hired as our new Sexton and began her role on June 15. We are grateful to

welcome her into this position and appreciate the important work that helps care for our church

building.

● The Property Committee reported that mulching has been completed. Work is also continuing on

gathering quotes for the driveway project, and the floors have stripped and waxed throughout the

building.

As we continue through July, I encourage each of us to remember that the work of the church is not

measured only by how busy the calendar looks. It is also found in the quiet acts of preparation, care,

maintenance, prayer, service, and leadership that allow our shared ministry to continue.

Thank you to everyone who continues to serve St. Mark’s during this summer season — through

worship, committee work, property care, outreach, fellowship, administration, prayer, and the many

unseen ways you support our congregation. Your faithfulness helps us continue living into our mission

of following Jesus, embracing all, and serving our neighbors.

May this summer be a season of rest, gratitude, and continued purpose.

Respectfully submitted,

Respectfully submitted,

Lea Ann Quimby

Council President, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church