Pastor Jim

pastor jim hold a communion wafer at the annual outdoor service

Greetings in the name of Christ.

Let me introduce myself. I’m Pastor Jim; pastor here at St. Mark’s since June, 2007. During this time and through my past experience with the folks at St. Mark’s I have found them to be a truly loving and Spirit-filled congregation. I am sure you will find the same to be true if you haven’t already.

I have been married to a wonderful young woman named Marian since 1978. Marian is in a large way responsible for me recognizing God’s call to ordained ministry. We have two grown children, Eli and Sarah, of whom we are very proud.

I graduated from Gettysburg Seminary in May of 2000 and was ordained in July of that year. My first call was here at St. Mark’s as Associate Pastor. Having an opportunity to move “back home” I accepted a call to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Latrobe, PA for five years before returning to what has been our “home away from home” since 1996.

Marian and I often joke about our “previous life, when I was a regular guy and had a real job.” In that previous life I was (and still am, I suppose) a Journeyman Mouldmaker and spent about twenty years as the foreman of the mould shop at Kopp Glass Co. in Swissvale, PA. I still enjoy working with my hands and often spend my day off working on the house, yard, or car.

For recreation I enjoy weight training and other athletic activities. (Come join me sometime in the weight room in the basement of the church!) I also enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, golf, etc. When the Steelers are playing you’re likely to find me in my big comfy chair cheering for my favorite team.

Now that you know a little about me, tell me about you. If you’re not a member of St. Mark’s come visit with us so we can get to know each other. If you are a member, let’s get to know each other better. I am always glad to share faith and fellowship in the name of Jesus, our Lord.

Peace be with you always,
Pr. Jim