Upcoming events.
Longest Night Service
In the Northern Hemisphere, December 21 is the longest night, the winter solstice. It marks the shortest day of the year, the official start of winter. Tradition says that nature and all her creatures stop and hold their breath to see if the sun will turn back from its wanderings, if the days will lengthen and the earth will once again feel the sun’s warmth. In honor of the darkest day of the year, we come with our honest yearnings seeking the return of light and hope.
On this night, we gather together in community to express the sighs too deep for words and name our deepest longings.
Christmas Eve Worship
In winter’s deepest night, we welcome the light of the Christ child. Isaiah declares the long-promised king. Paul reminds us that the grace of God through Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people. The angels declare that Jesus’ birth is good and joyful news for everyone.
Join us for candle light worship at 4:00pm and 11:00pm. Special music begins at 10:30pm.
Livestream the late service HERE.
Practicing Radical Hospitality
Join us in person for an inspiring event with Rev. Emily Harkins as we explore the joys and challenges of caring for life on the margins. Radical hospitality is not simply an ideal but biblical principal. Join Pastor Emily in a conversation around building genuine relationships, caring for our neighbors, and witnessing the full embrace of God’s Kingdom. This is a great chance to connect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations for the sake of our neighbors. Lunch is provided.
Peter Mayer - Stars and Promises: Harmony
Guitarist, Vocalist and Songwriter Peter Mayer announces his annual Christmas tour for the holiday season 2025, “A Stars and Promises Christ
Guitarist, Vocalist and Songwriter Peter Mayer announces his annual Christmas tour for the holiday season 2025, “A Stars and Promises Christmas – Harmony.” Mayer is a frequent traveler in the musical world, sharing the stage with James Taylor, Paul McCartney, Don Henley, Paul Simon, Dave Matthews and many others, and best known for his 35 years as Jimmy Buffett’s lead guitarist. As a songwriter-performer in his own right, leader of the group PM, and the Peter Mayer Group, he has released more than 20 albums, among them, four Christmas albums. Last year his Stars and Promises Christmas tour celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Embarking on their 26th year of Christmas touring, the show features a world class group of musicians that are electrifying in live performance. The ensemble gathers Violin, Woodwinds, Bagpipes, Electric and Acoustic Guitar, Percussion, Electric and Acoustic Bass and Singers, all moving seamlessly through an array of styles, from Celtic reels, Folk songs and World Music Rhythms, Classical carols, Jazz and Rock ‘n Roll and a tip of the cap to the music of Jimmy Buffett.
Stars and Promises features traditional carols, holiday classics and original Christmas compositions and the stories that brought them to life. As Mayer tells it, “I love this season with its timeless songs and the varied Christmas traditions we share. This year’s theme, “Harmony”, speaks of our need to work for unity in our families, in our communities and in our world... to live Peace in times of conflict, and live Joy in our common causes, which forever promise to be stronger than our differences. It’s an honor to know that so many fans have made this concert their yearly tradition, saying their Christmas season hasn’t begun until they’ve seen a Stars and Promises show.”
This year’s performance will be a show in two parts, featuring an intimate “unplugged” acoustic set, and a set with all the bells and whistles, including special guests along the way.
Come join us for Christmas carols from long ago, Yuletide stories of the season, Brand new holiday carols for this Christmas, Don’t miss this “Christmas concert like no other”
“A Stars and Promises Christmas 2025 – Harmony.”
For a complete list of tour dates and ticket information, visit www.petermayer.com. For booking information and to bring Peter Mayer to your town, email jon.spindler@petermayer.com.
Bach Vespers
The Bach Vespers tradition at St. Mark’s continues as we prepare to sing our 22nd cantata by J. S. Bach, sung in the context of a Lutheran Vespers (Evening Prayer) service. The cantata serves as the musical offering at the center of a service with vibrant hymns and reverent liturgy. Vespers begins at 6 pm.
Fall Arts and Crafts Festival
Shop more than 35 vendors at our St. Mark's Art and Crafts Festival. We'll also have food trucks, a small country store, and raffles throughout the day. All raffle proceeds go to support Jacksonville Campus Ministry.
Blessing of the Animals
Join us for our annual blessing of the animals worship service held in the courtyard at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. This service is held in place of our regular 1st and 3rd Saturday night worship. All animals are welcome to join us in worship, sing a joyful noise, and receive a blessing. Worship begins at 5:30pm.
San Marco Chamber Music Society - Free Concert
Join us for a free concert by the San Marco Chamber Music Society. The first concert of the year is a fundraiser with all proceeds going to support Juvenile Diabetes Research. http://www.sanmarcochambermusic.org