Fellowship Groups
With a desire to build community at Saint Mark’s, we are launching Fellowship Groups this fall! The goal of Fellowship Groups is to allow parishioners to get to know each other over a shared meal and foster a strong sense of community and connection. Groups of approximately 6-10 individuals will gather 2-4 times in homes or restaurants over October and November. We hope that you will join us!
Please complete this form by Sunday, September 14 to indicate your interest in participating in Fellowship Groups this fall. Groups will be assigned in mid-September, and group hosts will be in touch to make plans.
Mother Dure or Daniel Russell are happy to answer your questions.
What are Fellowship Groups?
Fellowship Groups are meant to be an opportunity for parishioners to come together in an informal gathering and share a meal together — to enjoy one another’s company, to strengthen bonds of community, to meet new members and just get to know other people who share a common interest in Saint Mark’s but with whom we might not otherwise interact. They provide a means to develop new friendships and deepen old ones.
Groups are made up of singles, couples, young people, retired folks and elderly, etc., in other words a cross section of the parish. Out of the meetings, friendships develop among people who might not have any other opportunity to meet and get to know each other. Newcomers are especially invited to sign up to join one of the groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about hosting and cooking? My living space is also small, what do I do?
In a place as diverse as Saint Mark’s, especially in a large city with a variety of housing types that people call home, we totally understand that parishioners have different abilities to host in their homes and culinary skills. Folks who are able to welcome others into their home and provide a simple, casual meal or snacks are encouraged to do so. For others, we will coordinate groups that meet in restaurants with the host making the reservation; however, everyone will be responsible for their own meal.
What time commitment is expected?
Groups will gather for a monthly or bi-monthly meal at the day/time agreed upon by the group members. Most gatherings will likely last about 2 hours.
May I choose my own group?
No, in order to foster new connections amongst the Saint Mark’s parish, groups are assigned to create a good cross section of parish life within the group and with a consideration for common dietary restrictions/allergies and home locations. Couples will be assigned to a group together.
What about families with children?
Families with children are an important part of Saint Mark’s and we want them to be able to participate. Please notate about your family structure on the sign-up form and we will pair with a group that best meets your needs.
Why have these Fellowship Groups now?
A major takeaway from the parish survey, which was summarized in the parish profile, was a desire for the parish to “create more opportunities for people to form meaningful relationships.” In response, the clergy and staff worked together to organize this opportunity for parishioners to gather. Fellowship Groups help meet the immediate need of those parishioners who have expressed a desire for a way to socialize, meet new people, and share their experience of Saint Mark’s. During a time of transition, there are additional benefits in listening to each other, supporting one another, and expressing our enthusiasm for the mission and ministry of Saint Mark’s.
Will the group to which I am assigned be my ”forever group?”
No. The term of the group is for just two months, with no other agenda than to give people an opportunity to get to know each other and enjoy each other’s company while sharing food. Over the years, small group fellowship has manifested in different ways at Saint Mark’s, and this particular model is one that now seems most advantageous.
What happens after I sign-up?
Next week, the names of those who have signed up will be assigned to groups of about 6-8 with a host. By late September, the groups will be assigned with the intention of mixing members who are less likely to know each other already and who live within an easy radius of the host. Small groups will meet at least 2-4 times over the course of October and November, though the group may decide to meet more often!
When do Fellowship Groups end?
Fellowship Groups will wrap up on Sunday, November 23, the Feast of Christ the King, with an acknowledgement of this wonderful ministry. All participants are invited to attend Mass to celebrate.