Our Story, Mission & Vision

“We love because God first loved us.”

1 John 4:19

A tall white cross standing against a partly cloudy blue sky.

A Rich History of Faith and Service

St. Mark’s United Church of Christ has been part of the Snydersburg and Hampstead communities for generations.

Since its founding in 1878, the church has served as a place for worship, fellowship, and service.

Over the years, our congregation has grown in both size and spirit, continually seeking to live out the teachings of Jesus Christ in our community, our nation, and globally.

Our Mission

St. Mark’s United Church of Christ lives to encourage people on their lifelong spiritual journey with Christ.

We seek to do this through meaningful worship, thoughtful teaching, compassionate service, and an open and welcoming community rooted in faith.

Multiple children and adults' hands stacked together in a teamwork gesture.

We envision a community where all people can experience God’s love, support, and guidance. St. Mark’s seeks to be a place where faith is accessible, hope is shared, and every person is encouraged to explore and grow in their spiritual journey. We aim to be a beacon of service, inclusion, and inspiration, bringing together people from all walks of life to worship, learn, and serve together.

Our Vision

What Guides Us

  • A close-up of a magazine or booklet with the text 'YOU ARE LOVED' surrounded by a border of colorful flowers.

    Faithful Worship

    Centering our lives on God through meaningful and diverse worship experiences

  • Wooden Scrabble tiles arranged to spell 'LIFTING OTHERS' and 'RESIST' on a white surface.

    Community & Fellowship

    Building relationships that nurture spiritual growth and mutual support.

  • Close-up of an elderly person's hand holding a younger person's hand.

    Service & Outreach

    Extending compassion and assistance to our neighbors locally and globally.

  • A white, distressed heart-shaped sign with the word "OPEN" written on it, hanging by a leather strap.

    Inclusivity & Respect

    Welcoming all people regardless of background, identity, or stage of life.

  • Scrabble tiles spelling out 'I AM STILL LEARNING' on a white background.

    Lifelong Learning

    Encouraging education, reflection, and personal growth through study and conversation.

Person wearing a black baseball cap with yellow embroidered text saying 'LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR' at an outdoor social gathering.

Putting Faith Into Action

We live out our mission by opening our doors, our hearts, and our resources to serve both the congregation and the wider community. Our building and ministries support a variety of spiritual, service, and community-centered gatherings, including:

  • Weekly worship, prayer, and spiritual formation

  • Fellowship and outreach opportunities within the congregation

  • A monthly food pantry, providing support to individuals and families in need

  • Community programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous meetings

  • Youth and leadership development through Girl Scouts

  • Ongoing fellowship and service with the Snydersburg Homemakers

Through these ministries and partnerships, St. Mark’s UCC remains an active and welcoming presence in the Syndersburg community.

  • Sunlight streaming through stained glass windows casting colorful patterns on the floor inside a dark room.

    Join Us!

    We would love for you to experience St. Mark’s in person.

    Take the next step toward connecting with our community!

    Plan Your Visit