Strategic Partnerships at St. Mark
Our denomination faces some hard realities with a 33% drop in median worship attendance, a clergy shortage of 1,000 (likely 2,000 by 2030), closure of churches (even in areas where growth potential exists), and limited resources from Synod or ELCA
We believe that serving God’s Kingdom means looking beyond the limitations of our location. We would do so by intentionally looking to follow the Holy Spirit’s call to communities to grow in faith, share Jesus Christ, and serve others – however that opportunity might look.
By sharing expertise, resources, and wisdom, healthy congregations like St. Mark can play a vital role in helping other congregations overcome challenges and growing into their potential.
The primary objective is that the Strategic Church (St. Mark) helps a Partner Church overcome obstacles to become the church God is calling them to be in their community. Experienced St. Mark lay leaders and staff will provide knowledge, resources, and experience. This partnership is not only for the benefit of the Partner Church, but we will learn something new about ourselves and clarify God’s purpose for St. Mark as well.
Partnership with St. Paul
St. Mark partners with St. Paul Lutheran Church (Martensdale) as we live out our vision to help strengthen God’s Kingdom beyond our own church walls. Multiple St. Mark staff and lay leaders, including the St. Mark Foundation, have donated their time and expertise to help the St. Paul community establish and begin to live out its own vision and mission.
Partnership with Kingdom Life
In 2021 St. Mark we learned that not only had Kingdom Life lost access to its Des Moines church building, but the congregation was actually gathering to worship in close quarters in various members’ houses throughout the pandemic. St. Mark now provides space in our Discipleship Center on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings for worship and programs. We are blessed to have the opportunity to provide this congregation with the physical space they need in order to support the growth of their ministry.
Learn More
Would you like to learn more about Strategic Partnerships through St. Mark? Contact Pastor Bob Bekkerus.