While The Gathering Place at St. Mark’s is currently being renovated and prepared, we share our ideas of the future of the space:

Caregiver Respite Gathering Place

Recognizing that caregivers need much needed self-care; this outreach ministry is offered as a means for them to have some “me-time”. We are offering this outreach ministry as a means of support not only to the caregiver, but their loved one as well. Caregivers are able to have their dependent encounter a loving, welcoming and supportive environment while they attend to their own self-care, appointments, etc. Their dependent will be able to participate (or not) in a variety of meaningful activities as they wish. There will be a variety of board games, arts and crafts, puzzles, and 1:1 interaction and/or group activities. The unique space offers areas of quiet sitting areas for those who prefer alone time. Lunch and snacks are served as well as hosting a coffee bar. 

Senior Citizen Gathering Place

This space serves as a senior citizens centre where people can gather for a lunch, a cup of coffee/tea/hot chocolate, and comradery. No one should be faced with a sense of loneliness day after day. This ministry is to offer a means of relationship building, where people can gather to share and to hear one’s life’s stories. 

Youth Centre Gathering Place

Not every child has something or someone to go home to after school. This ministry offers a place where the youth can gather to play board games, play corn hole, watch a movie, etc. Snacks and drink are served. In partnership with the local public library, a variety of special programs are offered.

Performing Arts Gathering Place

The transformed chancel serves as a stage where poets, public speakers, artists can stand and share their talents. A vertical piano is at the ready. A variety of musical artists come to share in individual and group performances. The space is ideal for yoga, Palates, and the like.

The Gathering Place

This is an ideal place to host a wedding, bridal shower, baby shower, retirement party, holiday party, a conference, a retreat, etc. 

Connecting Through Spirit

A variety of holy exploration into our spiritual journey. Services are steeped in Celtic spirituality where we recognize the sacredness of self, others, and this our island home, Earth.  The services meet people right where they are at on their spiritual trajectory. This is a Gospel Orientated Community, meaning, we bask in the Good News that there is always hope and that light over comes the darkness. That we are beloved children of the Creator who calls us to be good stewards and to recognize the dignity of every human being. These are services in which we honour each and everyone’s individual perspective and philosophy provided it is seeded in love.