St. Mark was founded in 1919. The first building was located at Valley Junction on the site of the old West Des Moines city hall. In 1953 the congregation moved to the present Grand Avenue, West Des Moines location. In 1968 the facilities were enlarged.

Through the years, St. Mark has improved and expanded its outreach to the world and local community. Steadily increasing proportionate financial commitments have been made in partnership to the mission we share with the Southeastern Iowa Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), as well as agencies supporting local needs involving hunger, child care, adult and elder care. Worship services are enhanced by one of the finest pipe organs in Des Moines and music provided by individuals and groups. Religious education, always a priority, is evidenced by: active participation in Sunday adult forums and Sunday school; Vacation Bible School; study groups; confirmation ministry; communion instruction for fifth graders; and continued education high school.

The congregation’s sense of community and service led to an extensive building program during 1986-1987. A new entrance, lobby space, offices, adult classrooms, remodeled nursery, and handicap accessible restrooms have been integrated into the existing facility. The addition greatly enhances St Mark’s use as a focal point of spiritual, educational, social and civic needs of the area.

In 2004 the congregation began a new building project to update and expand the current facilities. The first phase was completed Easter 2006 and includes a remodeled Sanctuary and Lobby along with a new playground area near the Sunday School wing.

St. Mark is a member of the