Small Group Ministry
S. Mark offers small group ministry to its members and visitors to encourage spiritual growth. The topics are constantly changing and new groups are beginning on a continual basis.
Currently, the following options are available:
Panera Bread Study Group:
Participants meet from 7:30-8:45 a.m. on Thursday mornings at Panera Bread on Perryville Road in Rockford. The group recently completed the books The Last Word: Beyond the Bible Wars to a New Understanding of the Authority of Scripture by N. T. Wright and The Heart of Christianity by Marcus Borg. Beginning in January, the group will study Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time by Marcus Borg. The Panera studies are led by Pastor Mark Hagen. Interested persons may contact the church office at 815-398-3557 to sign up for the study. Books may be ordered through Buy.com or Amazon.com.
In-Home Bible/Book Study Groups:
Various small groups meet at varying times and days during the week at St. Mark members' homes. Topics have included: The Will of God as a Way of Life; Biology and Belief: Conversations in Faith and Science; Finding God in the Questions; a Bible study entitled No Experience Necessary; The Rapture Exposed; How Lutherans Interpret the Bible; Opening the book of faith: Lutheran Insights for Bible Study; book of faith Advent Reflections, and the parables of Jesus. The groups meet for eight to ten sessions for one and a half hours each week. New members are welcome, and new groups are forming as needed. Please call the church office at 815-398-3557 if you are interested in becoming a part of an in-home Bible/book study.
Retreat Ministry:
St. Mark offers retreat ministry at various times during the year. A marriage retreat is planned for February 13 & 14, 2010. Please call the church office at 815-398-3557 for more information.