At St Mark, we feel called to reach out beyond our walls to engage with and support the local community and the world. It’s our way of sharing faith, showing love, working for justice and serving others. The Outreach Committee takes action to initiate projects to assist those facing hardship locally. For example, we support Manna Homeless Society with money and by making and serving lunches to those in need. The Committee raises awareness and provides financial assistance to organizations in the areas of:
- Social justice. For example, Haven House, Food Bank.
- Youth and Children. For example, School Lunch Programs, Hands and Hearts (Backpack) Programme
- Aging/Health. For example, Inclusion Parksville, Oceanside Hospice
- Climate/Environment. For example, Repair Café
Internationally, the Committee has raised awareness and responded with financial assistance to Alongside Hope (PWRDF) by funding a well in Africa, a hospital and educational resources for Gaza and the West Bank, and aid for the people of Ukraine.
In addition to the Committee, individuals support a variety of organisations including the Qualicum Refugee Sponsorship Group which has sponsored three families and Precious Jewels, an organization in the Philippines and Uganda working with children affected by HIV/AIDS. Other members bring prayer, music and education to the Nanaimo Correctional Centre. Still others, knit vests for the prevention of pneumonia in children. There have been concerts and dinners, plant sales and pie sales. We are a community that believes in feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, visiting the prisoners and housing the needy.
If you would like to join the Outreach Committee and get involved in our local and international campaigns, let us know. Come and join us!
Contact admin@stmarkqualicum.ca or call 250-752-5414 for more information.