Families at Saint Mark's

At Saint Mark's, we know that not all families look the same. Whatever the shape and size of your family, please know that you are welcome to be a part of ours. Children and families are an integral part of the Saint Mark’s community, and there are numerous ways in which they can get involved in the life of our parish.

Baptism

At Saint Mark's, we welcome children of all ages, including infants, to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. We recognize that the Sacrament is first and foremost a gift from God, and believe a child is no less able to receive that gift than an adult. In these cases, parents and godparents make the vows on behalf of the child. It's expected that when a child reaches an appropriate age, he or she will make a public affirmation of those vows in the Rite of Confirmation. For more information on baptism, including scheduling, please contact the Assistant for Parish Life.

Mass

We understand that our traditional Anglo-Catholic Mass may not always be accessible to every family. That’s why Saint Mark’s hosts a more family-friendly service at 9 a.m. Unlike the 11 a.m. High Mass, the Family Mass is simplified and may feel more familiar to those new to the Episcopal tradition. The altar is brought closer to the congregation, and children are encouraged to participate in the service by reading, serving, and singing. The sermon is tailored to children, helping them reflect on God’s word in a way that resonates with them.

This is a wonderful way for families new to the Episcopal tradition to experience it in a welcoming and approachable manner.

Boys and Girls Choir

The Boys & Girls Choir provides children and youth ages 7 and up with outstanding professional choral training, music theory, leadership development, choir camps and trips, and a stipend for each chorister. It is also a vibrant means of Christian formation. Choristers participate regularly as musicians at Mass, as well as at Evensong and Benediction. For more information, please visit our music section.

Communion

In the Episcopal tradition, children of any age who have been baptized may receive communion at Saint Mark’s, and we encourage them to do so. While we do not offer services for a child’s first communion, a central part of children’s formation is gaining a deeper understanding of the Eucharist. Beginning in Fall 2025, there will be a four-part educational series dedicated to this. More information, including a guide to help families decide when to include children in communion, can be found here.

Formation

At Saint Mark’s, we offer a comprehensive formation program on Sunday mornings from September to June, from 10-10:45 a.m. directly after the Family Mass. We believe that the Christian faith is strengthened through both teaching and the experiences of daily life. We hope, too, that children and youth will participate in Sunday worship and educational offerings regularly, so that their spiritual lives are enriched as much as possible.

We offer three groups for Sunday formation: Schola (pre-school) for ages 3-6, Elementary for ages 7-11, and Youth for ages 12 and up.

For more information, including the curriculum, visit our formation page.

Youth Group

The Saint Mark’s Youth Group is an important part of parish life. Children 12-18 are invited to gather monthly for prayer, meals, service, and fun. Last year, the children supported the parish’s Soup Bowl, made “Blessing Bags” for our unhoused neighbors, enjoyed a fall lock-in, went bowling, and more! This year, the fun continues. Youth Group is always welcoming new members, and is proud to support all LGBTQ+ children and their families. If you have a child age 12 or older and are interested in joining the fun, please contact Gabriela Montequin.

Gabriela Montequin, Assistant for Family Ministries & Parish Life

Gabriela Montequin began as the Assistant for Family Ministries & Parish Life at Saint Mark's in 2024. Her work at the parish includes enhancing family ministry, overseeing the 20s/30s group, supporting daily operations and event management, cultivating intentional community in the parish rectory, and serving as a liaison for newcomers.

gmontequin@saintmarksphiladelphia.org