“We are happy you are visiting our website and if you’re looking for a church home, we invite you to consider St. Mark’s United Church.”

At St. Mark’s there is something for everyone. We have ministries that involve all ages from the smallest to the oldest that will help you meet new people and become part of our church family.

The motto of the United Church of Canada is “We are not alone…We live in God’s World”, and you will not be alone should you decide to join us.

What To Expect

• The main entrance to our church is located just to the left of the tower. Once inside, the Sanctuary is to the right and the Sunday School rooms, Fellowship Hall, washrooms and Church office are to the left.
• You will be greeted when entering the Sanctuary and you can pick up a bulletin. Like a theater program, this tells you what will happen during the service and about other events at the church throughout the week.
• If there is anything you need please tell the greeters or ushers, they will be able to assist you.
• Children stay with their parent(s) for the first part of the service until Children’s Story Time when they are invited up front for a bible story. Children then may go to Sunday School with a volunteer teacher.
• Services tend to be about an hour long.
• There will be some readings, normally from the Bible, but often from other contemporary sources.
• United Church people love to sing. Music and words are provided either in the bulletin or in a hymn book in the pew.
• The minister will give a sermon, which is a reflection or commentary on the readings, current events, or life in general.
• There are several times for prayer during the service. Most of these will be given by the minister, and others by a member of the congregation.
• Several times during the service we stand to sing or pray, but only stand if you are able, and for so long as you are comfortable.
• Communion is served numerous times a year, but not every Sunday. Participation is open to all people who believe attending the service, but is not mandatory.
• An offering of money is collected to support the work of St. Mark’s. There is no set amount; people give as they are able. This supports our congregation (maintaining the building, providing programs, paying the minister), and also the work of the church in our community and around the world through the Mission and Service Fund.  If you feel comfortable making a donation, the Offering Plate is in the Foyer before and after the service.
• At the end of the service, we typically gather for tea, coffee, juice and a “nibblie” in the Fellowship Hall. It’s there for everyone and you don’t have to be a member to join in. Someone probably will come up to you and say “Hello” – the beginning of a conversation, friendship, and fellowship.

As you can see, there are few “rights and wrongs” about attending a United Church service. The most important thing is being there!

Adapted with permission, The United Church of Canada.

If you are looking for more information about St. Mark’s, the United Church of Canada, the Christian faith, or anything else please contact us at the church office by phone at (506) 672-3320, email  stmarksunitedchurch@nb.aibn.com or in person at 50 Dexter Drive, Saint John during office hours.