If you are a priest searching to see whether or not St. Mark's might be a good fit for you, we invite you to explore this page in depth as it was created especially with you in mind. Many voices have contributed to this profile.
If after reading our profile you would like to apply for the rector position at St. Mark's please click here to be directed to the application.
If after reading our profile you would like to apply for the rector position at St. Mark's please click here to be directed to the application.
A bit of history
"St. Mark’s has been the only Episcopal presence in the Dalton area for 150 years and was here before the Diocese of Atlanta was formed, a strong historical indication of the Parish’s resiliency and capacity to recover from difficult times. 2017 marked the 150th anniversary of the founding of St. Mark’s. The planning process to celebrate the Parish’s 150 years of Christian ministry reminded the parishioners of who we really are, and of the struggles our ancestors endured to bring St. Mark’s to its present position. This celebration, attended by past rectors and many current and former parishioners, brought so many people together and offered renewed hopes for the future of the parish. St. Mark’s has emerged as a renewed and revitalized community with anticipation that we will find a new rector to come alongside the good work being done here and assist us in moving forward into the future."
-Cindy Michaels
A more detailed history can be found by clicking here.
"St. Mark’s has been the only Episcopal presence in the Dalton area for 150 years and was here before the Diocese of Atlanta was formed, a strong historical indication of the Parish’s resiliency and capacity to recover from difficult times. 2017 marked the 150th anniversary of the founding of St. Mark’s. The planning process to celebrate the Parish’s 150 years of Christian ministry reminded the parishioners of who we really are, and of the struggles our ancestors endured to bring St. Mark’s to its present position. This celebration, attended by past rectors and many current and former parishioners, brought so many people together and offered renewed hopes for the future of the parish. St. Mark’s has emerged as a renewed and revitalized community with anticipation that we will find a new rector to come alongside the good work being done here and assist us in moving forward into the future."
-Cindy Michaels
A more detailed history can be found by clicking here.
A word of introduction
"The Prophet Jeremiah, recognizing that God’s chosen people were at a crossroads, asked the Israelites to look for the good way and walk in it and find rest for their souls. It is that question which has echoed through many of the activities of the last few years. St. Mark’s found itself seeking a new direction, cherishing the past and celebrating its rich history, while also accepting that many issues needed thorough examination, and repair with loving and healing hearts and hands.
Turmoil at St. Mark's called for honest and fierce conversations as a widening circle of lay persons under the excellent guidance of the vestry and senior warden accepted that challenge of creating a new vision and purpose for our parish. Four core values of Visibility, Accessibility, Mutuality and Hospitality radiating from the heart of Christ’s love inform the “good way” the people of St. Marks have chosen to walk.
The recent fresh assessment, employing the "Holy Cow" CAT survey tool, is empirical proof of St. Mark’s new vibrant journey, something that was already being felt in hearts and minds. The people of St. Mark's are committed to walking in the good way, with God’s help. We invite all to come and walk with us. "
- The Nominating Committee
St. Mark's Today
Ministry
There are many forms of ministry here at St.Mark's and all of them are reliant upon the leadership and offering of time and talent from many different individuals. Because the different ministry divisions often overlap and intertwine with each other, we at St. Mark's often refer to them in terms of being ministry circles.
Listed below are the different ministry circles.
Worship Ministry Circle- This is quite obviously a very important part of ministry here at St. Mark’s, for it is the heartbeat of all other ministry at the church. Under this ministry is included the important work of the Chancel Choir, organist, hand bells, Eucharistic ministers, lectors, prayer leaders, visiting Eucharistic ministers, Vergers, Acolytes, Altar Guild, Linen Guild, Flower Guild, and ushers. Traditionally two services are offered each Sunday, Rite I at 8 am and Rite II at 10:30 and a short Wednesday afternoon Prayer and Healing service. Special services have been offered to include Shrove Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, Evening Prayer during Lent, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Blessing of the Animals. A page with more detailed information is available here.
Adult Formation Ministry Circle- "The focus of this group is to offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth for the adults of St Mark’s. We know that people learn in various ways, so we have provided such offerings as discussion groups on Sunday mornings, Book Studies during the week, and visits to other churches to hear prominent speakers.
We began the program year working through the book “Following the Way of Jesus” by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry. Three concurrent book study groups made their way through this book, with chapters written by several renowned writers. We were implored to find “reflection, discernment, and commitment around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. An adult formation teacher continues the theme every Sunday morning with Adult Sunday school classes in the Parish Hall.
For Lent, we are all invited to read and participate in “The Soul’s Slow Ripening”, by Christine Valters Paintner. This book is rich with “12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred”. Monday morning at 9:00 we have a group that meets at The Perfect Cup coffee house. Wednesday afternoon at 5:30 there is a group at the church and Rev. Susan leads a group at Royal Oaks retirement community as well. We would be delighted to start another group should there be enough interest.
In addition to the opportunities above, the Vestry has worked their way through “The Rebirthing of God” by John Philip Newell, attended a “Dismantling Racism” workshop at St. Mark’s and a “Called to Lead” workshop on Church Vitality at The Church of the Ascension in Cartersville led by Rt. Rev. Robert Wright, assisted by Canon Alicia Schuster Weltner and the Rev. Sarah Fisher."
- Jan Littell
There are many forms of ministry here at St.Mark's and all of them are reliant upon the leadership and offering of time and talent from many different individuals. Because the different ministry divisions often overlap and intertwine with each other, we at St. Mark's often refer to them in terms of being ministry circles.
Listed below are the different ministry circles.
Worship Ministry Circle- This is quite obviously a very important part of ministry here at St. Mark’s, for it is the heartbeat of all other ministry at the church. Under this ministry is included the important work of the Chancel Choir, organist, hand bells, Eucharistic ministers, lectors, prayer leaders, visiting Eucharistic ministers, Vergers, Acolytes, Altar Guild, Linen Guild, Flower Guild, and ushers. Traditionally two services are offered each Sunday, Rite I at 8 am and Rite II at 10:30 and a short Wednesday afternoon Prayer and Healing service. Special services have been offered to include Shrove Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, Evening Prayer during Lent, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Blessing of the Animals. A page with more detailed information is available here.
Adult Formation Ministry Circle- "The focus of this group is to offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth for the adults of St Mark’s. We know that people learn in various ways, so we have provided such offerings as discussion groups on Sunday mornings, Book Studies during the week, and visits to other churches to hear prominent speakers.
We began the program year working through the book “Following the Way of Jesus” by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry. Three concurrent book study groups made their way through this book, with chapters written by several renowned writers. We were implored to find “reflection, discernment, and commitment around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. An adult formation teacher continues the theme every Sunday morning with Adult Sunday school classes in the Parish Hall.
For Lent, we are all invited to read and participate in “The Soul’s Slow Ripening”, by Christine Valters Paintner. This book is rich with “12 Celtic Practices for Seeking the Sacred”. Monday morning at 9:00 we have a group that meets at The Perfect Cup coffee house. Wednesday afternoon at 5:30 there is a group at the church and Rev. Susan leads a group at Royal Oaks retirement community as well. We would be delighted to start another group should there be enough interest.
In addition to the opportunities above, the Vestry has worked their way through “The Rebirthing of God” by John Philip Newell, attended a “Dismantling Racism” workshop at St. Mark’s and a “Called to Lead” workshop on Church Vitality at The Church of the Ascension in Cartersville led by Rt. Rev. Robert Wright, assisted by Canon Alicia Schuster Weltner and the Rev. Sarah Fisher."
- Jan Littell
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Outreach Ministry Circle- In our listening sessions with parishioners we heard over and over how much Outreach is an integral part of the life of this church and in the lives of the people. Whether it is providing monetary support to organizations, offering of time and talent, or founding important community ministries, the people of St.Mark's are very generous, loving, and kind to their neighbors.
Some of our biggest ministries include our special needs inclusive preschool and its 5k fundraiser, a no cost Medical Clinic known as the DEO Clinic, our use of building space to host 3 different recovery programs and 2 summer camps, an elementary school reading program, and care of our local college community through their food pantry. We invite you to visit the Outreach page by clicking here to see some of the other wonderful ways we reach out to our community, our region, and the world. |
"Peter’s Free-Wheelin’ 5K is an absolute love-fest! To see all the children laughing and running, to hear all the cheers, to witness the disabled runners being pushed by loving individuals through the race course is just a joy. It is a morning to remember our precious son, Peter, who attended this loving preschool, but it is also a day to celebrate the triumphs of children and families living, loving, and growing within their community despite their challenges and disabilities. It is an honor to put this race on each year with our awesome race committee!"
-Meredith Andersen |
Welcoming Ministry Circle- The Welcoming Ministry was added more recently as the Parish became aware that more effort needed to be put into reaching out to visitors so that they felt more comfortable and more likely to return. This ministry oversees website development and maintenance, greeting on Sunday mornings, provision of coffee and donuts on Sundays, newcomer parties (which provide an opportunity for visitors and newer members to meet more established parishioners), as well as signage.
Pastoral Care Ministry Circle- This ministry oversees many different facets including cards (sympathy, birthday, illness), meals for life changes (illness, new baby, death, etc.), funeral receptions, assistance with wedding ceremonies, prayer shawl and lap blankets during services in the Sanctuary, and other things whenever a Parishioner is in need of extra care.
Pastoral Care Ministry Circle- This ministry oversees many different facets including cards (sympathy, birthday, illness), meals for life changes (illness, new baby, death, etc.), funeral receptions, assistance with wedding ceremonies, prayer shawl and lap blankets during services in the Sanctuary, and other things whenever a Parishioner is in need of extra care.
Children & Youth Formation Ministry Circle- There is not currently any staff dedicated to Children and Youth and this is an area where parishioners hope to see growth after the establishment of our new rector. The youth of St.Mark’s currently are most involved in Acolyte opportunities and special youth events which are held throughout the year, especially in the summer and around holidays. There is a nursery available on Sunday mornings during the 10:30 service that is available for children ages infant- 5 years. There is more information detailed here on our webpage. |
"We moved from Chattanooga to Dalton to buy our dream farm. Before we moved here, Dalton was just a series of exits that we passed on our way to visit family near Atlanta. Now that we have been here nearly five years we really enjoy where we live and its proximity to the outdoor pursuits that we love. We cannot imagine a better community in which to live and to raise our daughter. We have really grown to love St.Mark's and look forward to seeing more opportunities in which the children and youth here can find spiritual development and relationships with their peers. " - Niki Davenport |
Parish Life Ministry Circle- The purpose of our Parish Life Ministry Circle is to celebrate St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and its parishioners. These special events are designed to help nurture and better know each other. Each event is decorated. A chair heads each event and chooses his/her members to help plan and implement the event. The Second Sunday Potluck is scheduled after the 10:30 am service most months. Receptions are held after concerts and special services, some with other churches. Special celebratory brunches are held throughout the year such as for Easter and a successful stewardship campaign. Foyer Groups meet throughout the year and consist of small groups meeting for dinner usually at a home. Other types of celebrations include Oktoberfest, Epiphany Party, Mardi Gras with the traditional pancake supper, Cinco de Mayo, wine and cheese parties, and cookouts.
Stewardship Ministry Circle- "St. Mark’s Church had its annual financial campaign during September and October of 2018. The campaign was very successful as 88 households pledged and contributed financially out of approximately 90-100 households represented as members of the church. The dollar amount of total receipts in the last 12 months is $316, 575. The actual expenses of the church are well-under budget, and this positive footing has helped make the church financially stable and independent."
- Rick Powell
Finance Ministry Circle- St. Mark's is in a good place financially, in fact, we are debt free and we are ready and able to support a full time rector. The following table lists a few financial details from the past three years and the current fiscal year.
Stewardship Ministry Circle- "St. Mark’s Church had its annual financial campaign during September and October of 2018. The campaign was very successful as 88 households pledged and contributed financially out of approximately 90-100 households represented as members of the church. The dollar amount of total receipts in the last 12 months is $316, 575. The actual expenses of the church are well-under budget, and this positive footing has helped make the church financially stable and independent."
- Rick Powell
Finance Ministry Circle- St. Mark's is in a good place financially, in fact, we are debt free and we are ready and able to support a full time rector. The following table lists a few financial details from the past three years and the current fiscal year.
Buildings and Grounds Ministry Circle- "The Building And Grounds Ministry Circle has been very busy thanks to an increased budget and generous donations from parishioners. We have been able to do some major projects in the past couple of years. Some of these projects include: replacing the flooring in the parish hall both upstairs and down stairs, repainting the inside of the parish hall, repainting both the outside of the church and parish hall, adding a security system, remodeling the bathrooms in the parish hall, replacing about half of the air conditioning units around the parish hall, replacing the lights in church with new LED lights, repaving the front parking lot, clearing out the brush and trees along the front of the church, and landscaping the front of the church on the north side.
Although this Ministry Circle has accomplished a great deal over the last couple of years; there are plans for several additional projects to be completed."
-Andy Hull
Demographics
What our current congregation looks like and the changes we would like to see.
Currently
From our recent church wide survey we were able to assess some information about who makes up the community of St. Mark's. The following is some of that data for your statistical pleasure.
Most recent membership: 260 Three years earlier: 225
Most recent average Sunday attendance: 100 Three years earlier: 100
54% of respondents attend Sunday services regularly (at least 3x per month)
76% of St. Mark's congregants live within a 10 mile radius of the church. The nearest Episcopal churches to Dalton are in Calhoun (20 miles) and Chattanooga (25 miles).
64% of respondents have attended St. Mark's for at least 20 and 14% for 4 years or less. We Episcopalians stick with it through thick and thin.
Please know this is a congregation that has been in transition for some time and there are ample opportunities within our community for growth.
Changes the congregation would like to see.
Of the responses received 96% identified as White and 4% identified as Latino/Hispanic. This was a topic that came up repeatedly in the listening sessions as an area of desired change. Because of the industries within our county, the Dalton community is comprised of individuals and families from a very wide array of ethnic and cultural origins, especially Latino(x)/Hispanics. This makes Dalton a unique community especially given the size and location of our city. St.Mark's is proud of its community and would like to see its ethnic and racial demographics shift to be more representative of our city and county.
57% of our parishioners are over the age of 65 and as the years progress much love and care must continue to be provided for these wonderful folks; but, the church also greatly desires to reach out to new families and younger people to join the St. Mark's community and continue the strong legacy that has been established here.
What our current congregation looks like and the changes we would like to see.
Currently
From our recent church wide survey we were able to assess some information about who makes up the community of St. Mark's. The following is some of that data for your statistical pleasure.
Most recent membership: 260 Three years earlier: 225
Most recent average Sunday attendance: 100 Three years earlier: 100
54% of respondents attend Sunday services regularly (at least 3x per month)
76% of St. Mark's congregants live within a 10 mile radius of the church. The nearest Episcopal churches to Dalton are in Calhoun (20 miles) and Chattanooga (25 miles).
64% of respondents have attended St. Mark's for at least 20 and 14% for 4 years or less. We Episcopalians stick with it through thick and thin.
Please know this is a congregation that has been in transition for some time and there are ample opportunities within our community for growth.
Changes the congregation would like to see.
Of the responses received 96% identified as White and 4% identified as Latino/Hispanic. This was a topic that came up repeatedly in the listening sessions as an area of desired change. Because of the industries within our county, the Dalton community is comprised of individuals and families from a very wide array of ethnic and cultural origins, especially Latino(x)/Hispanics. This makes Dalton a unique community especially given the size and location of our city. St.Mark's is proud of its community and would like to see its ethnic and racial demographics shift to be more representative of our city and county.
57% of our parishioners are over the age of 65 and as the years progress much love and care must continue to be provided for these wonderful folks; but, the church also greatly desires to reach out to new families and younger people to join the St. Mark's community and continue the strong legacy that has been established here.
Looking to the Future
Parish Concerns and Hopes
One of the questions in the listening sessions with the congregation regarded concerns or hopes that we want to make sure our next rector understands about us. Here is a summary of the most common responses.
"Our congregation thought there were a few things a rector seriously considering St. Mark’s should know: Firstly, we are the only Episcopal Church in Dalton, and somewhat of an outpost in the Diocese of Atlanta. This can be empowering, but at times may feel isolating. Secondly, St. Mark’s parishioners can be strong-minded and the laity is very involved in the operation of the church. A rector who tends to work with the congregation, instead of dictating to the congregation, is likely to be a good fit here. Thirdly, sometimes change is hard. When the change is important, we eventually get there, but we do better with a gentle transition than an abrupt change."
- Chris Brown
Parish Concerns and Hopes
One of the questions in the listening sessions with the congregation regarded concerns or hopes that we want to make sure our next rector understands about us. Here is a summary of the most common responses.
"Our congregation thought there were a few things a rector seriously considering St. Mark’s should know: Firstly, we are the only Episcopal Church in Dalton, and somewhat of an outpost in the Diocese of Atlanta. This can be empowering, but at times may feel isolating. Secondly, St. Mark’s parishioners can be strong-minded and the laity is very involved in the operation of the church. A rector who tends to work with the congregation, instead of dictating to the congregation, is likely to be a good fit here. Thirdly, sometimes change is hard. When the change is important, we eventually get there, but we do better with a gentle transition than an abrupt change."
- Chris Brown
A vision of Our Next Rector
"The last decade has proven especially challenging for the people of St. Mark's. We have endured changes in leadership, the Great Recession and other issues in the life of the church both locally and nationally. At times, these challenges have felt almost existential, threatening the very life of our church. But difficult times are a part of every life, and great challenges either break you or make you stronger. We at St. Mark's are proud to say that our difficulties have made us a stronger and more self-reliant parish.
At the outset of our difficulties, it was a common sentiment that what we needed in our next rector was someone who would "save" us from our troubles and lead us to higher ground. However, when that did not immediately happen, and as our challenges continued, we turned inward, addressed our conflicts openly, honestly, and, through hard work and determination, resolved our differences. Ultimately, we found that we were strong enough to "save" ourselves. Today, we are a stronger parish with a greater sense of who we are and an eye towards the future and where we want St. Mark's to go.
What we desire now is a rector who will shepherd us toward that future, who can spiritually inspire us and work with us to ensure that we stay focused and work towards our goals. These goals include expanding our membership to embrace both the diverse populations of our community at large and a younger and more energized membership, taking spiritual and pastoral care of our aging members, and expanding the scope of the outreach programs we have successfully established." - Wes Phinney and Sue Boyd
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Where the heck is Dalton, GA and why is it so great?
Dalton is located 30 miles south of Chattanooga, TN and 90 miles northwest of Atlanta, GA amidst the beautiful western foothills of the Southern Appalachians and is the second largest city in NW GA. A long recorded history of the area can be found due to its Cherokee (Tsalagi/Aniyunwiya) presence before their forced removal, and due to the area seeing much bloodshed during the Civil War. Beginning in the mid-20th century Dalton experienced a true industrial revolution and became the largest center of tufted carpet and flooring production in the world. Thus our town is often referred to as the "Carpet Capital of the World". This is a community of resilience. Dalton and Whitfield County have experienced much growth in the past few years after recovering from the recession of 2008 . Dalton itself boasts close proximity to many outdoor opportunities including the Pinhoti Trail (mtn bike, horseback, hiking), Fort Mountain (camping, biking, hiking) Pigeon Mtn WMA (caving, climbing, hiking, camping) as well as many public Parks and Recreation facilities such as HaigMill Lake, and numerous athletic venues . The Cherokee National forest which includes the Cohutta Wilderness, Ocoee River, Hiwassee River, Toccoa River, a multitude of campgrounds and lakes, and miles and miles of trail is accessible within an hours drive. |
"Dalton has been a very good community in which to raise a child. There are many activities from sports, outdoor activities to the arts all of which are family oriented. The local school system provides a high quality education and offers a diverse population that helps prepare our children for the future." - Phil Reisz |
Downtown Dalton is growing and already includes excellent local dining options, a local brewery (owned by some of our parishioners), and an outdoor concert venue (made possible by the generosity of a long time parishioner) which hosts free community concerts and events throughout the summer months. Dalton is also home to Dalton State College, a baccalaureate granting institution (retired President is parishioner). The Creative Arts Guild (Director is parishioner) offers visual arts displays and lessons, music, and dance. Two theatres (parishioners own one) offer theatrical productions throughout the year. The high tech regional hospital, Hamilton Medical Center, has recently expanded to include the state of the art Peeples Cancer Institute and the Anna Shaw Children's Institute, which focuses on providing support for children with developmental delays.
For additional information about Dalton you can check out the following links:
www.cityofdalton-ga.gov
daltonchamber.org
Dalton/Whitfield Community Profile
We have also included a fun video of our town put out by the Dalton Chamber of Commerce for your viewing enjoyment
For additional information about Dalton you can check out the following links:
www.cityofdalton-ga.gov
daltonchamber.org
Dalton/Whitfield Community Profile
We have also included a fun video of our town put out by the Dalton Chamber of Commerce for your viewing enjoyment
Dalton is also in very close proximity to Chattanooga, TN. According to www.chattanoogafun.com "Chattanooga, TN has been named by Lonely Planet as the "Best in the U.S." and "10 U.S. destinations you need to see in 2018."In fact, the New York Times named Chattanooga one of the "Top 45 Places to go" in the World. And it's no wonder. Tucked between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most breathtaking cities. There's a world of outdoor adventure, amazing restaurants, live events, art and world-class attractions."
The Diocese of Atlanta
Should we mutually choose to join in partnership with you as our rector and St. Mark's as your parish, you would be within the Diocese of Atlanta.
The Diocese of Atlanta is a vibrant, diverse and expansive faith community, with 116 different
communities focused on worshiping a living and loving God and working for a better world in the name
of Jesus Christ. There are some 50,000 members in nearly 25,000 households in the 11 convocations
that make up the diocese.
Our Diocesan Purpose Statement, adopted at Annual Council 2015, informs all aspects of our common
life: “We challenge ourselves and the world to love like Jesus as we worship joyfully, serve
compassionately, and grow spiritually.”
We are a Christian community blessed with vibrance, variety and vitality. Our diocesan bishop is the
Right Rev. Robert C. Wright, who was elected by the diocese in June 2012 and then ordained and
consecrated Oct. 13, 2012. The Right Rev. Don A. Wimberly assists Bishop Wright in visitations.
The Offices of the Bishop are at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta. We have more than 200 clergy who are under Bishop Wright's oversight, plus an abundant supply of lay leaders and ministers. The Diocese of Atlanta was created in 1907 and carved from the Diocese of Georgia. As part of The Episcopal Church, the Diocese of Atlanta is connected to the worldwide Anglican Communion of 70 million people in 38 provinces. We engage in special companion relationships with several dioceses in Africa and South America.
The Diocese of Atlanta actively supports the ministry of The Episcopal Church and its presiding bishop, the Most Reverend Michael Curry.
We invite you to explore our website: www.episcopalatlanta.org , and to follow us, and Bishop Robert Wright, on social media.
St. Mark's Griffin
A Word of Thanks
Thank you for taking a moment of your time to read about and to consider whether you might like to take further steps to make St. Mark's your new church home. If after reading our profile you would like to apply for the rector position at St. Mark's please click here to be directed to the application. We love what we have going on here and we look forward to including more and more people in the love and work we are called to as followers of Christ. We hope that you will join us.