Markings Newsletter
- February 2026
Volume: 104 | Issue: 2
A Letter from Rev. Quentisha Davis Wiles, MSW, ASW, MDIV, Senior Pastor
Dear Beloved Saint Mark’s Community,
I hope this new year is treating you well. With all the demands of life, I know it sometimes feels exhausting. So let me ask you: What warms your heart/ what breaks your heart?
Have you ever been in love? How did you know it was love and not just some warm and fuzzy feeling?
What speaks to Your heart? I want to know what speaks to your heart. What do you notice about the world—do you see harm, do you see good, do you see God? These questions echo John Wesley’s three simple rules for Christian living.
But beyond the rules, the Spirit of God is speaking to your heart right now. The world is full of happenings, and not everything grabs our attention. But there are things that speak directly to our hearts, things that call us forward. I believe that thing is God-inspired—the call to love, to advocacy, to justice springs forth from Agape Love, the all-encompassing Love that ignites hearts, transforms minds, and inspires action.
God didn’t send Jesus to condemn but to save. God stepped in—became flesh, loved us in our messiness. Then Jesus sent his disciples not as spectators, but as participants in God’s divine plan to transform the world.
That same call extends to us today. Agape love doesn’t just feel good—it does good. It shows up, stays, advocates. This is the love that transforms not just individuals but entire communities.
To discern where God is calling you to step up and step in, spend time this week with
these questions:
- What breaks your heart? What issue, injustice, or need keeps showing up in your awareness? That persistent tug might be God’s invitation.
- What lights you up? Where do you experience joy when serving or connecting with others? Your passion is often a signpost to your purpose.
- What’s within reach? Who in your immediate circle—family, workplace, neighborhood—needs to experience Agape love through your presence?
This Week:
- Set aside 15 minutes for honest prayer about what speaks to your heart
- Name one thing that’s calling you forward—write it down, speak it aloud
This Month:
- Choose one small act of stepping in: visit someone lonely, advocate for someone voiceless, show up where you’re needed
- Invite one person to join you in worship this February—transformation happens in community
This Season:
- Connect with a ministry at Saint Mark’s that aligns with what God is stirring in you
- Share your story—let someone know what sustains you and what you’re discovering about Agape love in action
This February, join us as we explore what it means to root our lives in transformative love. Bring your questions. Bring your gifts. Bring company—invite friends, family, neighbors to join this movement.
What speaks to your heart? What is God stirring in you that calls you to love, to action, to transformation? Don’t ignore it. That’s the Spirit moving. That’s your invitation to step up and step in.
The world doesn’t need spectators. It needs participants who know they are loved, who choose to love, and who commit to loving until love wins.
Will you step in?
In Agape Love,
Pastor Q
2026 Saint Mark’s Crab Feed
Saturday, April 11 | 5:30 - 9 PM | La Sierra Community Center
Saint Mark’s Crab Feed makes it return on the evening of April 11, 2026, starting at 5:30 PM. The event will take place at the La Sierra Community Center in Carmichael, 5325 Engle Road. Like previous years, this will be an “all you can eat” Crab or (alternative entrée (limited)) with pasta, tossed salad, bread and dessert. Beverages will be available for purchase. The theme for the event will be the “Roaring 20’s”.
Ticket prices will be $60 for individual pre-sales. Get together a group of 8 and purchase a table for $480 before March 31st. After March 31st individual tickets will cost $70.
Ticket sales will begin on Sunday, February 15th. after church in Wesley Hall or Courtyard depending on the weather. Tickets will also be available in the Church Office and on the St. Mark’s website. The last Crab Feed had 325 people attending so you’ll want to get your tickets early! This year’s theme is “Roaring 20’s”.
This year once again the Silent and Live Auction will be one of the highlights of the evening!
Would you like to donate an item for the auction? Please contact one of the members of the Organizing Committee: Russ Burgess, Margie Shunk, Nepoh Koker, Chanel Yates, Ron West, or Chris Harris.
Suggestions might include a special handmade gift or a special service you could provide… like house cleaning, lawn mowing services, window washing? Maybe you can give singing or piano lessons or share another talent such as cooking or baking. Perhaps you could create a themed lunch or dinner party for a group or donate a gift card or gift basket with a “Roaring 20’s” theme? non-themed items will also be accepted as well.
There is a special need for larger value items that can be auctioned. These might be timeshares or vacation properties, antiques, artwork, or other items that might have special interest. Be creative!!
Please mark your calendar for the evening of Saturday, April 11th, and plan to participate in the fun and food. Don’t forget to invite your neighbors and friends. You will not want to miss this event.
All proceeds will go to support the ministries and missions of the St. Mark’s Community.
Sunday School Happenings!
WONDER is our word of the month and our Bible Verse is Luke 5:26: All the people were beside themselves with WONDER. Filled with awe they glorified God saying “We’ve seen unimaginable things today.” We’ll explore WONDER through faith. Jesus’ ministry was filled with acts that gave people a sense of wonder and awe.
Lots of fun activities are planned. We look forward to seeing you!
~ Mary Maret & Margie Shunk, Teachers
~ Mary Kohatsu, Garden & Music Coordinator
Sunday School is growing—and we’d love to have YOU be part of the fun!
We’re looking for a team of caring, joyful helpers who can step in on Sunday mornings from time to time. Could that be you? Whether you’re available once a month, once a quarter, or somewhere in between, your presence makes a big difference!
You don’t need to prepare lessons—just come ready to enjoy time with our kids, support the lead teacher, and be part of a ministry that brings so much joy and life to our church.
If you’re interested (or even just curious!), please reach out to Sharon Grieve by leaving a message for her with the church office at 916‑483‑7840.
Come help shape faith and make Sunday mornings special!
First Friday Night Karaoke’s Pre Super Bowl Party Friday, February 6 | 6:00 - 9:00 PM | Wesley Hall
Join us on Friday, February 6 for a lively pre–Super Bowl celebration—rep your favorite team, even if they’re not in the big game! We’ll also celebrate Valentine’s Day and all January + February birthdays.
Enjoy our delicious Nacho Bar (check with Sharon Grieve if you’d like to help with toppings). Drinks—sodas, lemonade, and coffee—are provided.
Whether you love to sing or just cheer others on, everyone is invited! Karaoke runs 6–9 PM in Wesley Hall. A free-will offering will help support our fantastic DJs.
For more info, see Sharon Grieve or Ron West.
Come join UWF for the Valentine Run/Walk For Justice
Saturday, February 14 | 8:30 AM | (the walk begins at the backside of Country Club Plaza or cheer on from the Saint Mark’s parking lot)
This event, in its 23rd year, is sponsored by Legal Services of Northern CA, an organization that provides free legal assistance to low income people in Northern CA. Participants can choose to run/walk 1.8 miles or 4 miles. The cost is $54.10 which includes a t-shirt and proceeds going to LSNC.
If you are interested in running/walking you can sign up at the LSNC website, www.valentine.run/race-information. Or, make a sign, bring a noise maker and cheer from the Saint Mark’s parking lot as participants go by. Either way, it is a perfect opportunity for Saint Mark’s to show our spirit and support for a worthy cause.
Please let Margie Shunk know if you plan to participate so you can be given additional details as to where we will meet, what time and who will pick up our shirts. margieshunk76@gmail.com or 916 276-0593.
Mercy Pedalers Winter 2026 Update
Saint Mark’s Mercy Pedalers have been very busy. Our weekly Wednesday morning route continues after nearly nine years in Arden-Arcade. We have seen a lot of people come and go. We are grateful for the support and donations that enable us to provide a hot cup of coffee, a sandwich, a snack bag, socks, hygiene kits and first aid items to our unhoused neighbors. Their gratitude is enormous.
We also provide emergency clothing, shoes and camping supplies. During the Winter we need men’s used or new jeans (especially waist sizes 30, 32 and 34), men’s walking shoes (especially size 10 and 10-1/2 new or used), women’s jeans (especially sizes 0 to 4 new or used), men’s socks, unisex gloves or mittens. We can also use baby wipes.
Food supplies that we currently need include fruit or applesauce cups, cheese filled crackers, Capri Sun, strawberry jam, ground coffee, dog food (canned and dry) and dry cat food.
Pastor Quentisha announced a coat drive and the results were astounding! She asked that 20 warm winter coats be placed on the altar, and the Congregation responded with 126 coats! On January 14th, the coats began being distributed on
the weekly Mercy Pedaler route. Fifteen of our unhoused neighbors received a warm winter coat, and each of them expressed their gratitude for the gift of warmth in temperatures in the low 50’s!
We shared some of the coats with Arden-Arcade HART that runs a supply room for all people doing homeless outreach in the area. This includes other Mercy Pedaler teams and churches that deliver lunches on a weekly basis.
The Arden-Arcade HART/St. Mark’s Mercy Pedalers Second Saturday Respite celebrated completing its first year of service on January 10th. This is a wonderful ministry that brings our unhoused neighbors to our Church for a hot breakfast, hot shower, a change of clothing, and a bag meal to take with them. We could use more volunteers to provide breakfast items and help. The Used Bike Ministry somewhat operates out of the Second Saturday Respite as that is where the used bikes are donated, repaired, then gifted to an unhoused person. A lock and chain are also given with each bike. We will gladly accept your used or unused bicycle for this program.
Thank you to the many donors, volunteers and supporters that make these ministries successful!
United Women in Faith 2025 Mission Recognition
Good Morning Church, I am Nancy Landrum, Vice President of United Women in Faith.
The motto of United Women in Faith, formally United Methodist Women, is “Driven by God’s love and United in Sisterhood, we work to improve the lives of women, children and youth. We believe love in action can change the world.“ The Special Mission Recognition Pin is a way for UWF units to honor a recipient who does just that.
Our recipients for 2025 are a dynamic duo. She has been a supporter of children and youth ministry by helping out in Sunday School, the Youth Group and serving on the Children’s Ministry Team. He has always made sure that any request made to improve the Education Building for the safety and comfort of the children and youth is met through his role on the Board of Trustees.
But this mighty duo extends their service to women, children and youth beyond Saint Mark’s, showing that their love in action can change the world. They own a farm in Sierra Leone, one of the poorest countries in Africa. The farm provides work for those who need it most to support their families. They are also very involved in seeing that the children in Sierra Leone are educated by providing or raising funds to pay for tuition, school supplies and uniforms for struggling families. Her father attended the school they support. It was because of his education there that he was able to immigrate to the US and obtain his Ph.D. The school has fallen into disrepair and their goal is to change that.
On behalf of the United Women in Faith, I am honored to present Nepoh and Juanah Koker with the Special Mission Recognition Pin.
Let’s Dig In! Landscaping Workday Saturday, February 7 | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Roll up your sleeves and help us make Saint Mark’s grounds look great! We’ve got weeds to pull, mulch to spread, and some pruning to freshen up the landscaping. No experience needed—just willing hands and good energy.
To all who already help care for our campus: thank you!
Come join the fun and help our grounds grow!
February UWF Gathering Supports Fair Legal Rights Tuesday, February 10 | 9:45 AM | MacMurdo Hall
On Tuesday, February 10, Gary Smith, Executive Director of Legal Services of Northern California will speak about the services this organization provides. Everyone cannot afford a lawyer, and, in certain cases, Legal Services will step in.
Founded in 1956, Legal Services of Northern California (LSNC) provides high quality civil legal assistance to the poor, seniors, and persons with disabilities in 23 northern California counties. Funded in part by the federal Legal Services Corporation, LSNC has eight field offices and a number of special projects, including a health law program, a pension law project, and a health insurance counseling and advocacy program for Medicare beneficiaries. The mission of LSNC is “to empower the poor to identify and defeat the causes and effects of poverty within their communities”.
Legal Services of Northern California (LSNC) is a federal, state and local-funded legal services program providing free civil representation to low-income clients in 23 counties in Northern California. The Tuesday gathering begins at 9:45 with refreshments and concludes with reports of UWF activities. Newcomers are welcome.
With proceeds going to LSNC, the Valentine Run/Walk For Justice, Saturday, February 14 begins at 8:30am at the backside of Country Club Plaza. Those interested in running/walking can sign up at the LSNC website, www.valentine.run/race-information. UWF members and friends can make signs, bring a noise maker and cheer from the Saint Mark’s parking lot as participants go by, a perfect opportunity for Saint Mark’s to show their spirit and support for a worthy cause.
Volunteer-in-Mission Update Saturday, February 21 | 10:00 AM | room E25
The VIM team is leaning in to the new year by focusing more clearly on our goals and, therefore, which tasks will be high priorities for our next journey. We plan to establish consensus by our next meeting, on Saturday February 21 at 10 AM in room E25. We would love to have your input in advance or when you attend the meeting.
Mission is the doing, the action. Working in small teams on missions of healing and inclusion, we learn maturity in choosing the kind of life that best fits our individual gifts. We build lasting relationships and develop surprising skills as we see a different reality in Angola, Sierra Leone, and Sacramento.
As ever, your financial support for Angola and Sierra Leone should be in addition to your normal generous support for the whole church. Questions? Talk with Nepoh Koker, Joel Bulaya, Jane Henderson, or Jim Eychaner.
Submitted by Jim Eychaner
Introducing the UMC Creation Justice Movement
Saint Mark’s is excited to share a growing United Methodist initiative focused on caring for God’s creation and advancing environmental justice: the United Methodist Creation Justice Movement. Rooted in our Wesleyan tradition, this movement brings together United Methodists who feel a renewed call to live in just, loving relationship with the earth and all our neighbors.
The Creation Justice Movement’s mission is to connect and support people and ministries across the church who are working for creation care, justice, and regeneration. Their vision is a world where all creatures and ecosystems thrive through sustaining and just relationships. They collaborate with churches, community partners, and justice organizations to strengthen collective action, uplift frontline voices, and advocate for policies that promote ecological and social wellbeing.
Beginning this month, Saint Mark’s will feature the Movement’s monthly Creation Justice Tips—including the January set—in each issue of the Markings. These practical ideas offer simple, meaningful ways to live out our commitment to God’s creation in everyday life.
Together, may we continue to grow as a justice‑focused faith community, seeking the flourishing of all God loves.
Creation Justice Tip of the Month – January
As we begin a new year, the United Methodist Creation Justice Movement invites us—following John Wesley’s tradition of renewing our covenant with God—to renew our commitment to caring for God’s creation. Their January guidance lifts up simple but meaningful ways to be better stewards of the earth.
This month’s suggestions include:
- Reducing or avoiding beef, which drives deforestation and high emissions.
- Choosing natural fibers like cotton, wool, silk, hemp, or bamboo to reduce microplastic pollution.
- Opting for aluminum over plastic, since it is far more effectively recycled.
- Staying faithful and hopeful, like the prophet Jeremiah, even when climate justice work feels overwhelming.
- Advocating for clean energy and protecting wildlife habitats.
- Encouraging greener practices in apartments, condos, or retirement communities.
- Aligning your finances with your values by divesting from fossil fuels.
- Exploring solar energy, now more affordable than ever.
Each action—large or small—helps us live out our call to care for creation and seek justice for our neighbors.
Click the button to explore all the details and ideas in the full article.
Tidbits from the Archive. . .
Heifer Project International
Heifer International’s mission is to end global hunger and poverty by supporting local farmers and their communities. They partner with smallholder farmers – especially women farmers – to improve their families’ food security and increase their incomes. They offer tools, training and resources that help farmers work together to build profitable, sustainable businesses with strong market linkages.
Saint Mark’s involvement with the Heifer Project International began in the mid 1950s when Dr. Dillon Throckmorton, the newly retired district superintendent, became Director of Heifer Project’s Pacific West Regional. Throckmorton had been DS when Saint Mark’s was established in 1951 and had been invited to the pulpit on occasion and spoke of his commitment to Heifer. He inspired members to become “Heifer Helpers”. Sunday School children were soon engaged to do extra chores around the home to earn 25 cents which would provide a chicken to a needy family.
‘Round-Up ’76 For Heifer Project’ provided the entire congregation to become involved in supporting Heifer. Ray and Dorothy Miller (Jane Henderson’s parents) solicited donated animals from all over the conference. They were trucked to the fairground in Pleasanton and distributed to needy families in the United States and around the world. The Millers learned that a heifer could be purchased for $400, instead of the usual $600, from local owners with Methodist affiliation. The congregation’s generous response bought two heifers and three newborn kid goats. The goats came from a dairy in Elk Grove and Ray brought them back to Sacramento in the back of the family car.
In 1977, Rev. Dave Wolf sought permission from the Administrative Board to create a new position on Saint Mark’s Council of Ministries for a Heifer Project Representative. Ray and Dorothy were elected. The same year, the Commission on Missions adopted world hunger as a global mission priority with Heifer Project to receive support. The fund raiser was Barnyard Sale & Barbeque. Videos of project work were shown, goats were milked, men dressed as farmers, and the tempting aroma of barbequed beef and pork all helped to raise $2200.
The Sharing Table was also established in 1977. Every Sunday from June through August fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafts, books, plants, anything that could be sold was donated to benefit Heifer. Income from the summer averaged $1000.
Without a doubt Saint Mark’s was enriching community and transforming the world through God’s love . . . .to be continued . . . . .
Barbara Eychaner, Historian
Join a Lenten Study with Pastor Q
Ash Wednesday is approaching quickly, marking the beginning of Lent—a sacred season when Christians prepare for Easter through prayer, fasting, reflection, and spiritual discipline. This year, we invite you to deepen your journey by joining one of two Lenten Studies, both led by Pastor Quentisha.
You can choose the time and format that works best for you:
In-Person Lenten Study
Thursdays at 11:00 AM
Room E‑25
Begins February 19
Online Lenten Study
Mondays at 6:30 PM
On Zoom
Begins February 23
Both groups will explore meaningful themes to guide your walk through Lent and help prepare your heart for the miracle of Easter.
All are welcome—come learn, grow, and reflect together.
Sign up sheets are in the Narthex, on the information table or with Patt, our new Office Admin., at pkregelo@stmarksumc.com.
GBHEM Scholarship Applications Now Open
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) has opened its scholarship portal for United Methodist students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies at colleges, universities, and seminaries.
In 2025, GBHEM awarded more than 2,500 scholarships to students at over 600 schools worldwide, helping equip the next generation of leaders. Students may submit one application per year.
Application Deadline: Friday, March 6, 2026
What Can We Do? Join the Conversation! Every 2nd & 4th Sunday | 11:15 AM | Room E-4
Feeling discouraged by national events and asking, “What can we do?” Come gather with others who feel the same. The What To Do group meets this Sunday to explore hopeful, practical ways we can make a difference in our community. Your ideas and your voice matter.
Drumming Circle Begins a Joyful New Year Last Saturday of each Month | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM | Sanctuary
Happy New Year to all our drumming friends! Last year brought wonderful moments of rhythm, learning, and laughter as we gathered in our monthly drum circle. This year, we’re expanding our musical exploration by adding new percussion instruments and learning how to use them to accompany songs and dance.
We’ll also begin rehearsing worship songs from across Africa, including pieces in Shona (Zimbabwe), Lingala and Swahili (Congo), and more.
In-Person Worship:
Drop gifts in the offering plate during worship on Sundays
Secure Text to Give:
Text a numerical amount to 916.299.5706
Mail:
2391 St. Marks Way Sacramento, CA 95864
January Finances
Vitals 1/12/26 – 1/18/26
Special Offering = $685 Human Relations Day
Contributions Received 1/12/26 – 1/18/26
General = $21,567.45
Designated = $6,084.01
Annual General Budget = $777,723
Monthly Budget Requirement = $64,810
Year to Date through 12/31/2025
Total Income through Dec 2025 = $651,819.05
Total Expenses through Dec 2025 = $674,900.08
Dec 2025 Net Income/Loss $23,081.03
New Prayer Requests
Howard Lawrence for strength, peace, and healing
Bob Jacobs
Robert Grieve for healing and recovery
Peace and comfort for the Olson family and friends upon the passing of Doris Olson
Holding in Prayer
Individuals, Families and Friends of loved ones suffering and living with mental illness.
Prayers of comfort for the family and loved ones of Vickie Ann Freemyer
Anne Smith for successful treatment and recovery from ovarian cancer
Barney Brinkmann for successful treatment and recovery from lung cancer
William Huckaby
Cathy Parker for healing and recovery from heart issues
Bill and Mary Ann Gile
Ann and Gibbe Parsons
Prayers for world peace
Prayers for caregivers and loved ones
Prayers for our country, leadership and communities
Prayers for courage and perseverance for our youth and young adults as they seek employment
Saint Mark’s is excited to launch Faith Unbound, a new podcast hosted by Pastor Quentisha—exploring bold, honest, and liberating faith.
Now available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
Listen, subscribe, and share!
