Council Corner: September 2026
Dear Friends in Christ,
September often brings with it a noticeable change in rhythm. The long days of summer begin to shorten, the air becomes a little cooler, children return to school, and our calendars begin to fill again. As summer gradually gives way to fall, we are reminded that change is a natural and meaningful part of life.
The changing seasons can also serve as a beautiful reminder of the seasons we experience in our life of faith. There are times of growth and celebration, times of reflection and preparation, and times when we are called simply to trust that God is at work even when we cannot yet see what comes next.
This fall, our Sunday School children will begin a new year together and will be learning about the Seasons of the Church. Through the church year, we journey together through Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Pentecost, and the many Sundays that help tell the story of Christ and shape our lives as people of faith. What a wonderful opportunity for our children—and for all of us—to be reminded that our faith has its own rhythm, continually bringing us back to the story of God’s love, grace, and presence among us.
As we begin this new season at St. Mark’s, there is also much happening within the life of our congregation.
At our June Council meeting, Council continued its work on several financial, ministry, fellowship, and property matters. I would like to highlight a few of those conversations and decisions:
● Council approved moving half of the funds in the Youth checking account into the Youth CD for a 12-month term, allowing those funds to earn additional interest while remaining designated for youth ministry.
● Council discussed the possibility of finding meaningful ways to use some of St. Mark’s investments to make an impact within our community. This is a conversation that reflects our continued desire to think thoughtfully about how the resources entrusted to us can support our mission of serving our neighbors.
● Council approved a $250 sponsorship of Taste of B’ville, providing another opportunity for St. Mark’s to support and remain connected with our wider community.
● The Property Committee continued gathering information and quotes regarding work on the church driveway and parking areas. As we move into the fall, we continue to explore the possibility of a parking lot paving project and what may be feasible for the congregation. No final decision has been made, and additional information will be shared as planning progresses.
Our June meeting also included plans for summer fellowship opportunities, including the Syracuse Boat Tours outing and our August 30 summer picnic. These gatherings are important reminders that fellowship is an essential part of our church life—giving us opportunities to strengthen relationships, welcome one another, and simply enjoy time together as a congregation.
As we look further into the fall, please also keep our Annual Congregational Meeting in November on your calendar. This meeting is an important opportunity for members of St. Mark’s to hear updates about our ministries and finances, participate in the business of the congregation, and help shape our shared ministry moving forward. Additional information regarding the meeting will be shared as we get closer.
Our commitment to outreach also continues throughout the changing seasons. Ministries such as our Laundry Ministry offer practical assistance and caring connection to members of our community, while our monthly Community Dinners provide food, and fellowship. These ministries are wonderful examples of our mission in action: Following Jesus. Embracing All. Serving Neighbors.
I am grateful to everyone who makes these ministries possible through volunteering, planning, cooking, serving, donating, organizing, praying, and simply showing up with a willingness to help. Each act of service, whether highly visible or quietly offered behind the scenes, contributes to the life and witness of St. Mark’s.
As summer turns to fall and another program year begins, may we embrace this season with renewed energy and a spirit of anticipation. Just as the colors of the leaves remind us that change can be beautiful, may we remain open to the ways God continues to lead, grow, and transform us as a congregation.
May this fall be a season of learning, fellowship, service, gratitude, and renewed faith as we continue our ministry together.
Respectfully submitted,
Lea Ann Quimby
Council President, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church