Markings Newsletter
Volume: 10 | Issue: 100
Now is Our Time: Be Love in Action
A Letter from Rev. Quentisha Davis Wiles, MSW, ASW, MDIV, Senior Pastor
As fall season arrives, it couldn’t have come at a better time. While the seasons change from summer to fall, the social climate seems to be heating up—with White supremacy propaganda, immigration attacks, violation of human rights, and social political upheavals creating national turmoil. We are not only experiencing a political shift; we’re smack dab in the middle of a cultural shift. While that might sound alarming—don’t panic. There’s opportunity for the people of God to assert ourselves, not as antagonists, but as advocates, compassion companions and champions of peace!
While the government wrestles with a loving and inclusive way forward for the poor, disinherited citizens, refugees and neighbors, our time is now.
Now is the time to amplify and live into our mission “to grow and thrive in our inclusive and diverse congregation as we engage the broader community with compassionate acts.” As we set our attention and intention on the social climate, let us raise our voices for justice, be love in action and shift the culture to reflect the Love of God.
You might be wondering, how do we accomplish that? Here’s the answer: Matthew 16:24-25. Let’s unpack what Jesus said in this text and what it means for us in the 21st Century.
Matthew 16:24-25: “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'”
Jesus wasn’t just talking; he introduced a culture shift! Christian culture is defined by Christ’s teachings and actions—the ways of Christ.
It’s choosing love over self-interest, service over selfishness, and kingdom values over worldly success. When we follow Christ’s example of loving our neighbors, welcoming the outcast, and standing with the marginalized, we create a culture rooted in love that spans generations.
The question remains: have Christians today set aside selfish interests, taken up our cross and followed Jesus? This blueprint for changing our hearts, lives and the world calls us to be peacemakers, to hunger for righteousness, and to love even our enemies.
I know putting love into action is sometimes difficult. So, I offer two ways to get started:
- Practice Neighborly Love: Choose curiosity over judgment when encountering others. Listen, help, and build bridges.
- Connect Across Generations: Engage with different ages at church and in community through acts of compassion.
This month we will dive into the Word and explore the Culture of Christ and his blueprint of Growing, Thriving, Inclusion, Faith and Love! This is your invitation to come, grow and learn ways to live life as an unapologetic Christian—filled with truth, love and grace.
Come on out, and bring someone with you to hear what God is doing in our midst. Let’s not just hope for change—let’s be the change. The culture of love starts with us, right here, right now.
I look forward to seeing you soon. May God bless and keep you in Love.
Love,
Pastor Q
Dear Saint Mark’s Community,
The season of giving and reflection is upon us once again! We are thrilled to invite our entire community to “Ignite Hope: Step Up, Step In” – our annual stewardship campaign that celebrates the beautiful ways God calls each of us to participate in kingdom work.
Mark your calendars! Our stewardship campaign kicks off October 19th and runs through November 16th – Pledge Sunday. As we gear up for the 2026 year, we turn to the powerful words of Luke 6:37-38, which remind us that “giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” These aren’t just words on a page – they’re an invitation to discover the joy that comes from offering our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness to build something greater than ourselves.
This campaign is about so much more than numbers on a pledge card. It’s about your story – the unique ways God has blessed you with gifts, talents, and resources, and how you’ve experienced God’s faithfulness through your own generous giving. Whether you’re a longtime member who has witnessed decades of God’s provision or a young person just beginning to explore what faithful stewardship means, your voice matters in this movement.
We’re calling all generations to step up and step in to 2026! Grandparents, share your wisdom about faithful giving with your grandchildren. Parents, show your kids what it looks like to trust God with our resources. Young adults, bring your fresh perspective and passionate hearts. Children, remind us all of the simple joy of giving. Every age, every stage, every story adds richness to our community’s witness.
As we enter this season of prayerful consideration, we encourage each family and individual to spend time reflecting on these questions: Where has God called you to serve? What gifts has He given you? How have you been blessed through your own giving? What wisdom would you share with someone just beginning their journey of generosity?
Join us as we Ignite Hope and Step Up, and Step In to 2026! Our pledge drive isn’t just about funding our church’s ministries – it’s about igniting hope in our community and beyond. It’s about stepping up to the opportunities God places before us and stepping in to the abundant life God promises when we trust God with everything we have.
The excitement is building, the anticipation is growing, and the joy of generous living awaits! Get ready, Saint Mark’s – something beautiful is about to unfold between October 19th and November 16th as we discover together what it means to truly “Ignite Hope: Step Up, Step In” to 2026.
With gratitude and great anticipation, Pastor Quentisha
Prepare your hearts. Prepare your prayers. Prepare to be amazed by what God will do through our faithful community in 2026!
Phenomenal: A Musical Journey of Women
“Phenomenal: A Musical Journey of Women” celebrates the voices, stories, and strength of women through a powerful blend of music. From historical suffragette anthems and folk/native melodies to modern-day icons like Helen Reddy and bold pop, blues, and choral compositions—this concert is a rich tapestry of sound and spirit.
While the spotlight is on female composers and songwriters, the message is universal: a celebration of individual worth and empowerment for all.
Don’t miss this moving and meaningful event, featuring some of our very own Saint Mark’s members: MerriSue Brown, Jeannine Perry, Lily Andrews, and Marsha Strode!
Get tickets now at www.sacramentowomenschorus.org
We’re Being Ecu-Musical!
Saint Mark’s choir is joining forces with the Carmichael Presbyterian Church (CPC) choir to sing together for peace and justice — twice! Our choir will be traveling to CPC on Sunday October 12th. Our two choirs will join their voices in songs of peace and justice as part of their worship experience. Then, one week later, on Sunday October 19th, our two choirs will fill our Saint Mark’s Church with music — those same passionate songs celebrating God’s dream of peace and justice. It’s a blessing to join with others in this ministry of inspiring music. We also hope to be able to collaborate with Temple Beth Shalom and other partners in the future. A multi-church Messiah Sing in 2026 has already been suggested!
Food Closet Update
For over 12 years, the Saint Mark’s Food Closet has been critical to lives in the Arden-Arcade area. And, despite a broken elevator, the Food Closet is still distributing food every Tuesday and Saturday out of the basement of the education building. Our guests have to come downstairs to get their bags of food since we can’t get the carts of food upstairs. On average, the Food Closet is still serving 200 to 300 families a month. Everyone is thrilled to receive milk, bread, cereal, fresh vegetables, canned goods, 2 carbs, at least one protein item, toilet paper, pet food, and sometimes a sweet treat.
The wonderful young people of Saint Marks help to make the Food Closet run smoothly on Saturday mornings. If you would like to help, the Food Closet gladly accepts donations of food (see Jane or Jim for what is needed most), money, or your time (especially on Tuesdays).
Thank you to all who continue to make the Food Closet a part of your regular giving. It would not exist without your generosity.
Saint Mark’s Mercy Pedalers – Fall 2025
As the weather changes, we prepare for distribution of warm clothes, sleeping bags, tarps and tents to help our unhoused neighbors get through the Winter.
In October we will begin our annual Sleeping Bag, Tarp and Tent Drive with Big 5 supporting with discount coupons. Big 5 has been great to work with on this annual drive, and they always manage to get whatever supplies are needed.
In the meantime, as you go through your closets, please look for items to donate: sweatpants, sweatshirts, zip front hoodies, knit caps, mittens, coats/jackets, umbrellas, small blankets and men’s used or new jeans waist sizes 30, 32, 34, 36, 38. Also walking shoes especially Men’s size 10 and 10-1/2.
Other items we use a lot of and are available at Dollar Tree are disposable rain ponchos, small packets of Advil and Tylenol, “neosporan”, gauze rolls and medical tape.
Second Saturday Respite
In January 2025, Saint Mark’s Mercy Pedalers and Arden Arcade HART started cosponsoring Second Saturday Respite. Volunteers pick up guests from Wellspace and bring them to Grace Café where they receive a hot breakfast, a change of clothing, an opportunity to shower and a large take home lunch. This event has become popular and some of the guests walk or ride their bikes to participate.
The concept of respite has gradually caught on, and guests like to linger, take their time to eat breakfast and visit with others, then take a hot shower before heading “home”. As the weather cools off, we will put out cots with blankets if folks want to take a nap.
We have started providing bicycles to some of our unhoused friends. Two have been given out and five more used bikes have been donated. We are looking for the best way to have the bikes restored before handing them out. We also purchase steel locks for each bike.
We can use volunteers to prepare breakfasts, drive guests, and help set up Grace Café and clean up afterwards. Please contact Jan at jmuggles@sbcglobal.net if you are interested in volunteering.
National Observance of Children’s Sabbath
Just recently I learned through a United Women in Faith webinar (Faith Talks) about the National Observance of Children’s Sabbath to be held October 17-19. It is an annual celebration that brings together people of every faith to raise a moral voice for children. Together, they commit to building a nation where every child can thrive in joy, safety and community. By participating in Children’s Sabbaths, you stand with others across the nation to say
- Every child is sacred
- Justice is possible
- Faith calls us to act
Advocacy for children is not just one weekend a year but all year. As president of Saint Mark’s United Women in Faith unit I am looking forward to taking what I learned in the webinar and having us put it into action because that is our mission: 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! As plans are made, you can help us too!
~Margie Shunk
Sunday School Happenings!
Awe is our word of the month. Awe is the feeling of respect and amazement that you have when you are faced with something wonderful or at times frightening. We will be learning about the life of Moses from birth to adulthood. Our Bible verse of the month is: The people were in awe of the Lord, and they believed in the Lord and his servant Moses. Exodus14:31b
Sunday School kids have done a great job picking produce from the garden they have planted. Now they have a chance to go pick in a REALLY BIG garden, Davis Ranch in Sloughhouse on October 11.
We look forward to seeing you!
Mary Maret & Margie Shunk, Teachers
Mary Kohatsu, Garden & Music Coordinator
U Pick It Produce & Picnic Adventure!
Saturday, October 11 | Davis Ranch, Sloughhouse 13211 Jackson Rd, Sloughhouse
Looking for a fun and meaningful way to spend a Saturday morning? Join United Women in Faith for a hands-on harvest experience at Davis Ranch — and bring the whole family!
We’ll kick off the day picking fresh produce straight from the fields, then gather for a relaxing picnic lunch under the open sky. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor fun, good food, and giving back — all in one day!
- Schedule:
8:30 AM – Meet at church to carpool
Or drive directly to Davis Ranch, 13211 Jackson Rd, Sloughhouse - 10:00 AM – Start picking!
- 11:30 AM – Picnic lunch together
Why Join Us?
- Fun for all ages – Bring the kids!
- Pick your own produce for just 45¢ per pound
- Help us donate fresh food to Saint Mark’s Food Closet
- Enjoy community and connection with fellow members
- Last year we picked 317 pounds – let’s beat that!
Bring a picnic lunch, plus bags or a box for your produce. We’ll combine what we pick to meet the 40 lb. minimum per car—no problem when we work together! (Last year we picked 317 pounds!)
RSVP to Margie Shunk so we know you’re coming: margieshunk76@gmail.com, text or call: 916-276-0593
October Volunteer-in-Mission Update
The Angola VIM team has identified specific tasks to work on during our next journey. The Bom Jesus sewing project is well under way, and someone who can teach extra sewing skills would be a valuable team member. The Women are advancing toward their crèche program goal of day care for toddlers. The team will engage with the children or their caregivers and also bring supplies. An adult literacy program is in planning. Our team will celebrate their progress and assist where possible. In each area, we will make personal connections between participating youth from Saint Mark’s and Bom Jesus.
Please imagine how you or someone you know can be blessed by joining this team. Now is the time to start asking questions to illuminate your path and discern your call.
We also invite you to donate $25 to $100 to sponsor nursing student João Bruno or Odette Calamba, who needs dental work, as described last month. These Angolan young people are ready to bloom. Just mark your donation as “Angola VIM sponsorship” or speak with any member of the team. As ever, your financial support for Angola and Sierra Leone should be in addition to your normal generous support for the whole church.
The team will meet next on Saturday October 18 at 10 AM in room E25. We would love to have you visit.
Mark your calendars—Autumn Fest 2025 is happening Saturday, and you won’t want to miss this joyful, all-day celebration right here at Saint Mark’s!
Join your neighbors, friends, and family for a day filled with: Live music, Delicious food, Kids’ activities, fun food trucks & Community connection
Whether you’ve been here for years or are new, Autumn Fest is a beautiful opportunity to experience the warmth and welcome of Saint Mark’s. It’s more than a festival—it’s a chance to celebrate who we are, connect with our community, and ask how we can better serve those around us.
New Prayer Requests
Hezekiah Wiles for healing and strength.
Kathy Johnson for successful surgery, healing and recovery from right hip replacement surgery
Holding in Prayer
Peace and comfort for Carol Stoughton, the Stoughton family and friends upon the passing of Roger Stoughton. Roger Stoughton passed away, September 1.
Anne Smith for successful treatment and recovery from ovarian cancer
Lynne Tracy-Kendall for successful treatment and recovery from breast 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 Parsons
Bob Jacobs
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
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
October Finances
Vitals 9/15/25 – 9/21/25
Special Offering = $0
Contributions Received 9/15/25 – 9/21/25
General = $6,702.65
Designated = $6,104.00
Annual General Budget = $770,086
Monthly Requirement = $64,174
Year to Date through 8/31
Total Income
$416,917.95
Total Expenses
$446,928.37
Aug 2025 Net Income/Loss $30,010.42
First Friday Night Karaoke Ministry
October 3 | 6:00-9:00 PM
Once again, First Friday Night Karaoke Ministry will celebrate Halloween. Songs may include Ghostbusters, Spooky or Witchy Woman. Maybe we will be treated to an encore performance of Time Warp?
Singers and supporters alike are encouraged to join us on October 3 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM in Wesley Hall. September’s Karaoke night saw us welcome five new singers!
Sharon is planning a Halloween themed potluck for the 3rd. Please let Sharon know what you will be bringing. The Karaoke Ministry will provide water, lemonade, and sodas. A free will offering to offset the cost of our fantastic DJs will be taken.
For more information regarding Karaoke Night see either Sharon Grieve or Ron West.
Time and Talent Surveys
In the early 1990s, Saint Mark’s conducted Time and Talents surveys of members. A long list of those willing to usher was accrued, as well a long list of alternates. The same was true for greeters, singles groups, United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men, and those willing to help in various capacities. There was more interest in singles groups than for seniors. Missions and Church & Society gathered substantial numbers. Only a few offered to plan an Advent dinner, though many offered to help! Similarly only a half dozen indicated an interest in coordinating summer brunches, but a long list suggested they would help.
Other areas of interest included support of new members, finance campaign, opening one’s home for a church meeting, providing refreshments for a meeting, housing for out-of-town guests/groups, and prayer groups. Some perhaps more vital necessities included carpentry, concrete work, electrical, general repairs, landscaping, painting, plumbing and glass repair. Other people expressed willingness to assist with disabled members of the community, refugees, and intergenerational needs. Hunger concerns and the Heifer Project also made the list. Lists were also accumulated for those willing to help in the office in various clerical capacities, with membership records, computer work, and counting the offering. Sunday school and music also collected helpers.
In late February 1993, $3,890 was dispersed (in envelopes with ten dollars each) to assist folks to “turn on their talents.” By June of that year, $8,163.17 was returned netting $4,273.12 for the general budget. Don Fado sold books. Mike Jaske made pies. Other cleaned carpets, made note pads, had garage sales, painted t-shirts, fed the homeless, were ‘street musicians’ between services, made blankets, and even bet on a Giants vs A’s game!
One particularly lovely letter from Peggy Randall detailed her project, mounting scenic photos from recent travels on note cards with matching envelopes. She sold 45 sets. Church had provided $10 toward her expenses of $40. Her net profit was $46.50, but she rounded up and returned an even $50. She described this as an ego-building experience and thanked the congregation for the opportunity to ‘turn on her talent.’ Clearly this enriched the community, in more than one way, and shared God’s love. . .
Save the Date: Sierra Service Project’s 50th Celebration Weekend! October 24-26
The Saint Mark’s community is invited to join fellow SSP supporters and partners for festivities between Friday, 10/24, at 4:00 PM and Sunday, 10/26, at Noon to celebrate SSP’s 50th Anniversary. The main event will be the Celebration Party, Saturday, 10/25 from 5:00-9:00 PM, at The Garden at the Line. The party will feature fun for all ages, and honor SSP’s history and highlight how SSP is launching into the future.
Saint Mark’s SSP Reunion - October 26
In conjunction with the Sierra Service Project (SSP) 50th Anniversary Celebration that is happening in Sacramento, we are calling all Saint Marks former SSP campers, counselors, staff, and chaperones to gather on October 26 after church in Grace Café for a fun reunion gathering!
Saint Marks has been part of the SSP story since the beginning in 1975, with Dave Wolfe serving as the first Board President. Jim Roberts and Pat Jackson were among the early board members. Groups of Saint Mark’s youth with their hearty adult counselors attended every summer! High School youth traveled to Native American communities in Northern and Southern California to be part of work teams with youth from other churches. The work teams participated in home improvement projects such as roof repair, deck and ramp building and painting. The Spiritual Life Program for the week offered youth a way to look closely at their faith and how to live a life of service once home from the SSP experience.
In the 90’s Saint Mark’s SSP participation ramped up with larger groups going each summer. SSP opened sites outside of California, with our groups now traveling to Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Oregon. Saint Mark’s youth were involved in the first summer Urban Project in Los Angeles, and also attended the first international SSP trip to Honduras. The church was very proud to have youth serve on the SSP Board and a number of youth went on to serve as members of the SSP Summer Staff which was a summer long commitment.
In the late 90’s youth sold “stock” to raise funds to cover the trip costs. Purchasers of “stock” were guaranteed a letter from their youth, from the work site, as well as a free ticket to a special brunch where the participants shared their experiences with the crowd. This way over a hundred sponsors each year got a closer look at the powerful program. Former Youth Director Christy Stoughton often said that “SSP is the best thing that we do for our youth!”
Saint Mark’s has 50 Years of SSP History of it’s own. We look forward to coming together to see old friends and share our favorite memories. Peanut Butter sandwiches will be served!
Contact David Jaske at dajaske@gmail.com to let us know your availability. If you cannot make it to share your SSP story, please consider sending any pictures or favorite memories that can be shared with everyone. If you can make it, please bring SSP pictures, memorabilia, and food to share. Hope to see you there!
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!
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The Valentine Run/Walk is kid friendly, stroller friendly, and canine-companion friendly! Participants are encouraged to wear their hearts on their sleeves, socks, tutus, onesies and collars. The Valentine Run/Walk benefits Legal Services of Northern California. Participants can choose to run/walk 4 or 1.8 miles. The event starts at 8:30 AM on the back side of Country Club Center and proceeds down Lusk Ave and Saint Mark’s so it is a perfect opportunity for Saint Mark’s to show their spirit and support of a worthy cause by either participating or cheering those on from our parking lot as they go by. For more race information go to www.valentine.run or contact Margie Shunk.
Sunday, January 12, 2025
Did you know Saint Mark’s is a founding member of Sacramento Area Congregations Together (ACT)? In 1991 twelve Sacramento area clergy, including our past Senior Pastor Don Fado, decided to create a faith-based community organizing network in Sacramento. ACT’s Mission statement reads. “Sacramento ACT exists to activate people to reclaim their faith; to create change and healing in the community. Sacramento ACT is a faith-based organization that develops people through the power of storytelling and relationships to identify community issues and solutions.”
On January 14 at 9:45 AM in MacMurdo Hall, United Women in Faith will begin 2025 with an introduction to the FACE (Family and Community Engagement) department of San Juan Unified School District. Created in 1960 with the merger of six school districts, San Juan has a rich tradition of helping students find academic success and achievement. The district website showcases a variety of family education and engagement opportunities including workshops, conferences, newsletters, volunteering and more!
A key part of Pastor Quentisha’s plan for 2025 is discipleship and getting everyone connected to a meaningful group as it builds community and provides support on the journey. These groups can focus on many activities. This article focuses on using a book discussion group to aide our faith journey. Many authors have described stages of human development as we grow and mature. One author applies these concepts to our faith and spiritual development using four sequential stages – simplicity, complexity, perplexity, and harmony. In a recent sermon, Pastor Q urges us to avoid spiritual stagnation.
