If you’ve dropped by the church in recent days, you’ll have seen that it’s been a busy place. Part of the reason is that the Returning Office for the Saint John – Lancaster riding has been located in our building since early September, and over 1900 people (1901 actually!) dropped in to vote at the two Advance Polls on Saturday and Tuesday. More will be in the building this coming Monday, so the place will again be busy. This activity is welcome, and the Elections New Brunswick staff have been great to have
around. So thanks to all of you for helping make everyone feel welcome.

Of course, this is only one of many ways that the church is being used by members of the surrounding community. Even when it’s not election season, it’s estimated that about 400 people from the neighbourhood come here every week – to drop their kids off, to sing, or to engage in other activities. In providing space for these endeavours, St. Mark’s is offering a very important service to the community – which I know is appreciated.

These realities have led our Unified Board to authorize the installation of some new
signage around the church. We want to send a clear message that “all are welcome
here,” and also to let people know the time of our Sunday morning worship service. So some signage was designed and ordered. Two new outside signs were put up this past Saturday, along with an inside banner over the doors into the sanctuary. As well, photos of some church activities have been posted in a display cases in the foyer, along with a striking advertisement for the upcoming “Harvest Hoedown.” I think it all looks great – and am most grateful to all those who have worked hard to make these projects happen.
To be sure, all this is a work in progress – and additional signage and advertising possibilities are now being explored. For the goal is to do everything we can to spread the world that St. Mark’s is alive and well, and is a place where all are welcome.

And you can also help to share this message. Church signage is important. But so too is speaking to friends, family members and neighbours about what we’re doing. Indeed, all of us can help to strengthen our church by letting our friends know about an upcoming social event. By sharing the church’s Facebook posts (including my little sermon “teasers”). Or by inviting someone to come to church with us on a Sunday morning. By working together, we can all do our part to ensure that St. Mark’s remains a strong, relevant and welcoming community of faith.