St. Mark Lutheran Church Core Beliefs

As a member of The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) St. Mark Lutheran Church is grounded in the principles of the Lutheran Reformation, emphasizing justification by faith, the authority of Scripture, and the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion and radical welcome to all

What we believe

1. Inclusivity and Ecumenism: St. Mark emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and affirming the full participation of women, men, children,        and LGBTQ+ individuals in all aspects of church life. It also seeks to build relationships with other Christian denominations and engage in interfaith dialogue.  
2. Social Justice and Advocacy: Along with the ELCA, St. Mark committed to addressing social issues such as poverty, racism, and environmental stewardship. It actively engages in ministries of giving, advocacy and social justice initiatives, reflecting its belief in living out faith through action locally, nationally, and world-wide. 
3. Justification by Faith Alone: We are saved by grace of God which is a gift from God received through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through human efforts or good works. This belief underscores the importance of God's grace and mercy in the life of believers. Our good works, compassion, and charitable giving are a response to God’s love for us rather than an attempt to earn what God has freely given us - love and grace. 

4. Authority of Scripture: The Bible is regarded as the inspired Word of God and serves as the primary authority for faith and practice within the church. It guides the teachings, ethical decisions, and understanding of God's will for the community. 
5. Sacraments: The ELCA and St. Mark recognize two sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion. Baptism is seen as a means of grace that marks the overt sign of an individual's entry into the family of God. Holy Communion is a sacred meal that commemorates Jesus' last supper with his disciples, providing spiritual nourishment to the community.  

St. Mark’s core beliefs are rooted in the Lutheran tradition and emphasize grace, faith, and community engagement. Through its commitment to social justice and inclusivity, St. Mark and the ELCA strive to live out its faith in a way that reflects God's love for all people.