Sacred Spaces

by on May 14, 2026 with 1 Comment

SACRED SPACES

Summer at Saint Mark's

Come experience and encounter the sacred spaces of Saint Mark’s Cathedral through art, music, journey, and story.

2026 EVENTS

Quiet Pride

Saint Mark’s Cathedral will be open to all on Saturday, June 27, 1 to 4 p.m. during Capitol Hill PrideFest for anyone who wants to sit, cool off, hydrate, and rest in a calm and quiet space. There will also be refreshments, rainbow crafting, contemplative practices, quiet space for sensory-sensitive folks, kid-friendly activities, and a station to honor queer ancestors. We are located four blocks north of PrideFest at 1245 10th Ave E (at Galer St).   This event is … Read More

The Great Cathedral Read-In

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1, 2-4 P.M. Bring a book or pick one up and relax in the quiet of Saint Mark's.

Intergenerational Hike to Franklin Falls

Enjoy an easy, scenic 2-mile out-and-back hike at Franklin Falls near Snoqualmie Pass. Trail info: WTA’s Franklin Falls page Optional early supper in North Bend afterward at a casual restaurant. RSVP: Canon Wendy Claire Barrie — wbarrie@saintmarks.org

View Calendar
Sacred Spaces is made possible through a "Vital Worship, Vital Preaching" Grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with funds provided by Lilly Endowment Inc.
Read an article about the Sacred Spaces suite of offerings from the Fall 2024 issue of The Rubric.

ONGOING OFFERINGS

 

  • CATHEDRAL TOURS: A tour of the cathedral, telling the story of this unique building and visiting some little-seen spaces in the crypt, is offered immediately following the 11 a.m. service on the last Sunday of each month. Gather under the clock in the rear of the nave after the liturgy concludes. At about 12:30, the group will move to Thomsen Chapel to begin the tour.

 

  • LABYRINTH: Walk the outdoor labyrinth on the front lawn (accessible 24 hours a day) or the indoor labyrinth in Compline Corner (whenever the nave is open). Finger labyrinths will also be available, along with a selection of books and materials for all ages about engaging with the labyrinth as a spiritual tool.

 

  • GARDENS: Bring your own picnic on the front lawn and enjoy the beautiful ornamental plantings by the Garden Ministry, explore the Saint Mark’s Greenbelt, and visit the Leffler Vegetable Garden (when it is open on Sundays and Wednesdays). Check out the Seed Library in the cathedral nave, where you can take seeds for planting and bring seeds from your own garden for others to use. Engaging with the gardens and gardening serves as an invitation to consider Creation Care as a spiritual practice.

 

  • CHILDREN'S CORNER: Whenever the cathedral is open, so is the Children's Corner, with a variety of creative and reflective activities appropriate for a range of ages, along with a curated selection of picture books and toys. A cathedral coloring book and a family guide will be available.

 

2025 EVENTS

"Celebrating Creation"

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 (Labor Day), 10 A.M.–2 P.M., in the cathedral nave

A cathedral open day of wonder, experiences, making, and learning about the natural world.

 

AT 10 A.M.

  • Gather on the outdoor labyrinth for Forest Bathing in the Saint Mark's Greenbelt led by Saint Mark's Community member Brian Sellers-Petersen.

AT 11 A.M.

  • An information chat/Q&A with the Saint Mark's Cathedral beekeepers• Join the Saint Mark's Quilt Ministry to design and construct a quilt with fabrics inspired by nature, to be given to Donna Jean's Place women's shelter. No quilting/sewing experience necessary!

Ongoing opportunities indoors and out

  • explore the Saint Mark’s Greenbelt and gardens• learn about our watershed and local wildlife• self-directed nature meditations• nature scavenger hunt

Activities for all ages

  • water play
  • giant bubbles
  • windowsill gardening
  • make seed balls
  • decorate a walking stick
  • make a nature mandala

AT 1 P.M.

• Live music in the cathedral nave with Clarke Reid

"Hopeful Arts"

SATURDAY, JULY 26, 2025, 10 A.M.–4 P.M., in the cathedral nave

An open day of creativity and contemplation at Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, in conjunction with the exhibition Healing & Hope in War Zones: Children’s Art from Gaza and Ukraine, on display in the cathedral nave at the same time. Featuring:

SCHEDULE:

11 a.m. - Introduction to Healing & Hope in War Zone with exhibition co-organizer D’Vorah Kost

11:15 a.m.–1 p.m. - Design a Quilt/Tie a Quilt—no experience necessary!

12–2 p.m. - Printmaking Workshop with artist-in-residence Sandy Nelson

2 p.m. - String Trio Concert

The Argonaut Trio—Chantel Charis, Alex Fang, and Sophie Naden-Johns—will be sharing selections from Trio Élégiaque No. 1 in G Minor by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Trio in D Minor, Op. 120 by Gabriel Fauré, and Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 17 by Clara Schumann.

3 p.m. - tour of the cathedral’s art and architecture

THROUGHOUT THE DAY:

    • Poetry corner for youth and adults—including poems to read and invitations to write and share your own
    • Storybooks and carpet area for kids
    • Creative activities for all ages
    • Refreshments including popsicles and grilled cheese
    • Walk the labyrinth
    • Relax in the Leffler Vegetable Garden
    • Explore in the Greenbelt

D'vorah Kost, one of the organizers of Healing & Hope in War Zones, has shared the GoFundMe of Wejdan Diab, the teacher working in Cairo with the Gazan children who created many of the artworks in the exhibition. Learn more and make a donation to support her work here.

D'vorah also commends the following organizations to those who wish to support relief efforts in Gaza: IMRelief , which delivers aid directly, and the organization HealPalestine.org

As always, you are encouraged to donate to the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, either directly or through the cathedral's giving page at saintmarks.org/give (select "Holy Land Humanitarian Relief" from the list of options).

"Quiet Pride" at Saint Mark's

SATURDAY, JUNE 28, 2025, 12–6 P.M., in the cathedral nave

On Saturday, June 28, while the Capitol Hill PrideFest is going on just a few blocks away, the cathedral nave will be open to all for contemplative and creative community-led activities, or just a quiet pause. Opportunities include: refreshments, rainbow crafting, contemplative practices, a station to honor queer ancestors, quiet space for sensory-sensitive folks, a tour of the cathedral building highlighting queer history, kid-friendly activities, and more.

If you would like to be present as a host, greeting visitors and answering questions, please sign up using this forum.

Confirmed activities include:

  • refreshments including grilled cheese, popsicles, and fruit
  • A craft station with a variety of projects (and you are invited to bring your own knitting, needlework, etc.!)
  • Outdoor fun including giant bubbles and the splash pad
  • special kid-friendly activities
  • Reading areas for kids and adults
  • A display for sharing pride stories, feelings, and prayer requests
  • A separate quiet sensory space (in Thomsen Chapel)
  • At 2 p.m., a collective art project led by Sandy Nelson
  • At 3 p.m., a tour of the cathedral building highlighting queer history

Quiet Pride is inspired by a hugely successful event last year at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Baltimore. In their words, they provided "a mellow Pride space for tender queers... great for anyone who wants to sit down, cool off, hydrate, or is introverted, sensory-sensitive, or just likes the quiet." If you would be interested in helping to plan the offerings at Saint Mark's, or to be present as a host during the event, please email Canon Barrie! wbarrie@saintmarks.org

2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19, 2025, 12:30–3:30 P.M.

On the Sunday of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, people all ages and abilities gathered at the cathedral in the afternoon for a variety of projects in the service of our community partners—Operation Nightwatch/Donna Jean’s Place Shelter, L’Arche Seattle, and Lowell Elementary School.

The afternoon began with lunch together. Some participants assembled welcome baskets for the first residents of Donna Jean's Place—making an inventory of received items, filling shower caddies with toiletries, and creating handmade cards. Others crafted a wooden sign for our neighbors Lowell Elementary School (Home of the Lowell Dragons!).

Some new friends from L’Arche Seattle joined in the projects. After lunch a team from Saint Mark's traveled to L'Arche Seattle's Angeline House near Volunteer Park to help with trimming back some shrubs and breaking up larger branches that have already fallen or been trimmed, raking, and taking down a large outdoor canopy.

2024 EVENTS

2024 New Year's Eve Labyrinth Walk

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 6 P.M.–MIDNIGHT (Holy Eucharist at the center of the labyrinth at the stroke of midnight, observing the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus.)

The 25th Anniversary Offering!—Since 1999, Seattle's most peaceful New Year's tradition.

As the old year passes and a new one begins, take time in the quiet, candle-lit space of the cathedral nave to pause, look inward, and experience a large indoor labyrinth laid out in the nave. Invitations to other contemplative practices are offered, and musical accompaniment will be provided by guest musicians throughout the evening. Drop by any time between 6 p.m. and midnight; stay for a few minutes or a few hours. Activities especially appropriate for younger children will also be available. Tea and cookies will be served. More details, including musician line-up, will be announced on this page when they are available. All are welcome; freewill donations gratefully received. At the stroke of midnight, a special, intimate service of Holy Eucharist led by Canon Rich Weyls is offered in the center of the labyrinth, observing the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus—a beautiful way to begin 2025.

Learn more here.

The Pageant of the Nativity

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2024, 7 P.M.

A retelling of a sacred story on a cathedral scale—a Christmas Pageant like no other! Learn more here.

 

Cozy Compline—Bedtime Prayers at the Cathedral

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024, 7–8 P.M.

Participants of all ages, from within the cathedral community and beyond, were invited to come in p.j.’s for milk and cookies and then get cozy for the Church’s bedtime prayers sung by the Schola (youth choir) of Saint Mark’s Choir School. Pillows and stuffed animals welcome!

After some time to gather with milk and cookies, the program began with a reading of Candle Walk by Karin Holsinger Sherman. The children present were given miniature lanterns, and then invited to settle in while the choir chanted the office. The liturgy followed the form familiar to this community, the so-called "Seattle Rite" of Compline, originally based on an order published in 1928 but evolved and adapted over the 68-year history of weekly sung choral compline at Saint Mark's. The service culminated with the quiet and moving 1943 setting of "This little light o' mine" by John W. Work, Jr.

The event was designed to be especially child-friendly, but meaningful to all members of the community.

2024 St. Francis Day Celebration with Blessing of the Animals

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2024, 3:30 P.M. (activities), 4:30 P.M. (liturgy), on the front lawn and labyrinth

On Saturday, October 5, Saint Mark’s once again offered its beloved Saint Francis Day tradition. A few years ago this offering was moved from Sunday morning to Saturday afternoon, and the outdoor celebration has a truly festive community atmosphere. As in previous years, the cathedral extended a special invitation to folks in the neighborhood who may not usually attend Saint Mark's. Dogs, cats, bird, bunnies, ponies, chickens, and all creatures great and small are welcome. New this year: Professional Pet Photographer Julie Austin was present offering to take free photos of animal friends, starting at 3:30.

The service at 4:30 p.m. includes prayers for healing humanity’s relationship with the earth, and for all the creatures who share the earth with us. After the service, animals can receive an individual blessing from a priest if desired. A festive reception with treats for pets and people concluded the afternoon. Learn more here.

Remember Your Baptism!—A Cathedral Pilgrimage for Everyone

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2024, 1:30–4:30 P.M. 

On the afternoon of Saturday, September 7, 2024, Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle, invited parents, godparents, sponsors, and those baptized of every generation to make a pilgrimage to consider the fortifying qualities of baptismal waters that mark us sacramentally and indelibly as Christ’s own forever. Those who gathered explored what it means to have inquiring and discerning hearts across a lifetime, the courage and will to persevere, a spirit to know and to love God, and to have joy and wonder in all God’s works of creation, including you and me, through reflection and activity stations for all ages located throughout the cathedral. At 3 p.m., all gathered for a liturgy of renewal of Baptismal vows.

Learn more here.

Art Installations by Sandy Nelson 

Three large-scale installations by artist, designer, and cathedral community member Sandy Nelson, titled Communion of Saints, Waters of Baptism, and Hands of Pilgrimage, will be on display in the cathedral nave for the duration of the Sacred Spaces offerings. All three were created in collaboration with members of the Saint Mark's community of all ages. Hear Sandy explain each of the works in the videos below.

Prophet of Justice, Prophet of Life: William Stringfellow

by on April 23, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2026, 6:45-8:15 P.M.

in person in Bloedel Hall and online via Zoom

Join our curate, the Rev. Adam Conley for an introduction to the life, writings, and prophetic witness of William Stringfellow. Stringfellow was a civil rights lawyer and lay Episcopalian who called the church to action in the 1960s and 1970s in the face of historic injustices. This 20th century Christian prophet has piercing words of moral clarity to speak directly to our present day. Come gain insights into Stringfellow's insistence that the church’s commitment to social justice must always remain rooted in the Word of God and the corporate worship of the church.

🔗 Zoom link

Program is free; no registration required. Optional community dinner at 6 p.m. ($8/adult; $25/family max.)

The Traveler and the Bishop on the State of America’s Democracy and Christian Nationalism

by on April 15, 2026 with 8 Comments

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026

Join Rick Steves for a European take on Trump and American democracy (basically his “No Kings” rally speech, updated and with an indoor voice). Then, Lutheran Bishop Shelley Bryan Wee (ELCA) will share a hard look (inspired by scripture) at the perversion of Christianity called “Christian Nationalism.” Rick’s talk will share how history is speaking to us — and how, if we listen, we can better understand and meet the challenges facing democracy in the USA. And, whether you consider yourself a person of faith or not, Bishop Shelley’s message will bring a new dimension to your thinking about the place of religion in the political discourse of our country.

Spring Nature Therapy Walks

by on April 15, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6 & SATURDAY, JUNE 20
10 A.M. – NOON at Volunteer Park (registration required)

In early observance of Rogation Days, the parish will offer two Spring Nature Therapy Walks in Volunteer Park. These will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on May 6 (in observance of Rogation Days) and on June 20 (the Eve of the Summer Solstice). The purpose of the walk is to slow down, open our senses, and enjoy the beauty and healing that nature has to offer. Everyone is welcome, no experience is necessary, and we will walk at a slow, gentle pace.

The walks will be led by Dan Stroh, a certified forest therapy guide, in cooperation with Ancient Earth Outings.

There is no cost, but space is limited, so registration is required.

For more information, you may contact Canon Rich at rweyls@saintmarks.org.

Cathedral Commons—Anglican Identity

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 6:45-8:15 P.M.  in Bloedel Hall and on Zoom 

All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

In the final session of Contours of the Christian Life, come explore the gifts of our Anglican heritage. We'll telescope back in time to the early days of Christianity in Britain and hold up to the light the treasures of this ancient faith we still hold and cherish. Canon Wendy Claire Barrie will debunk some of the myths (No, we do not owe our beginning to Henry VIII's desire for a divorce!) and celebrate some of the highlights (Yes, we are part of a global family with 85 million members, now led by a woman as "first among equals"!) as we prepare for confirmations, receptions, and reaffirmations on Cathedral Day.

Program is free; optional community dinner at 6 p.m. ($8/adult; $25/family max.)

Cathedral Commons—Debriefing Holy Week

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2026

All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

This session of Contours of the Christian Life is an opportunity to unpack and review the sensory-rich, story-full liturgies of Holy Week with Saint Mark's canons and curate, giving special focus to the Triduum of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Great Vigil of Easter. We'll look at the ancient origins of some of our observences and those who participated in person or online in the liturgies at the cathedral or elsewhere will be invited to reflect on their experiences.

Pentecost Run, Ride, Roll at Seward Park

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SUNDAY, MAY 24 2026, 3-4:30 P.M., Seward Park, Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle

Calling all bikers, scooters, walkers, rollerbladers, runners, unicycles and so forth to join in a Pentecost Sunday Ride/Run/Roll around Seward Park in Southeast Seattle. We will meet on the lawn near the Seward Park Playground at 3 p.m. From there, we will head around the Seward Park 2-mile paved and flat loop. The day ends with the traditional root beer floats! All ages and generations are encouraged to join in. Families with children should plan to chaperone their own children around the loop as needed. The park is a popular place on Sunday afternoons so allow time for parking! Write to Canon Barrie with questions: wbarrie@saintmarks.org

Cathedral Commons—Celebrate with Reverence: Eucharistic Living

by on March 19, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026  

Facilitated by the the Very Rev. Steven Thomason — All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

As part of the Contours of the Christian Life series, Dean Thomason will offer some reflections on the Eucharist and how we embrace sacramental living in our daily lives. We will then reflect on the four principal acts in the Eucharist—take, bless, break and give—before sharing an Instructed Eucharist. All are welcome. In-person attendance is encouraged, but Zoom will be available.

Cathedral Commons—One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism: Baptismal Identity in the Body of Christ

by on March 15, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2026  

Facilitated by our curate, Fr. Adam Conley — All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

St. Augustine said that Christians are above all, baptized members of Christ’s risen body, the church. This Contours session examines what it means to center baptismal identity in the Christian life. We will draw from the deep well of Baptismal ecclesiology at the heart of the 1979 BCP to explore how our shared life of prayer and worship directly connects to our vocation to seek and serve Christ in our neighbor.

Cathedral Commons—Episcopal Identity

by on March 10, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2026 

Facilitated by the Rev. Emily Griffin — All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

What happened as the Church of England took root on American soil, and how does that history shape us as Episcopalians today? How do we make decisions as a church body, and who holds authority for what? Join us as we take a tour through time and across continents, encounter some fascinating characters along the way, and explore how our faith is embodied in how we live and serve together on this particular branch of the Christian family tree. All are welcome to join, either in Bloedel or on Zoom.

Discernment Circles – Spring 2026

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New “Discernment Circles” are Forming!

Is God moving in your life in a new and different way? Are you grappling with a life question? We often use the word “discernment” to describe a process of listening to the Holy Spirit to make decisions and navigate life with insight and intention. This is not merely intellectual reasoning, but a holistic perception that integrates heart, mind, and spirit. This perception emerges within a context of prayer.

You and God can certainly do this work together, but some people wish to engage this process in community. Our new Discernment Circles offer this opportunity to you. Each circle will consist of one Discerner and three trained Compassionate Listeners. The groups will meet two or three times to explore a Discerner’s question(s).

Appropriate life questions might be, “Should I make a career change? When should I retire? Am I being called to marriage? Is God calling me to ministry in the church?”

If you are interested in doing some discernment in community through this process, please contact Canon Rich Weyls to learn more at rweyls@saintmarks.org.

2026 Women’s Retreat to Sacred Waters

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As of March 5, 2026, this event has reached capacity. For those still interested if a spot opens up, please register for the waitlist.

FRIDAY–SUNDAY, MAY 15-17, 2026, at Sacred Waters Center for Restoration and Retreat in Union, WA

Led by the Rev. Canon Emily Griffin

🔗 WAITLIST REGISTRATION FORM

There are seasons to our relationships - with God, each other, and the world around us. It is a challenge to be fully present in whatever season we’re facing and to remember that it too will pass. We will gather again at the Sacred Waters retreat center on the Hood Canal (formerly St. Andrew’s House) for a weekend of rest and reflection on this theme. We’ll base our conversations on Denise Levertov’s Selected Poems (2002). Specific poems will be identified for participants in advance. As always, there will be plenty of time for connecting with new people and deepening existing friendships, as well as exploring the beautiful setting.

Registration is CLOSED - If you would like to be added to a waitlist in the event a spot opens up, fill out this form.

Fee: $330 for single or double occupancy; includes two nights lodging and all meals Friday dinner to Sunday lunch. Partial scholarships are available. A $100 non-refundable deposit will be required to hold your space.

Questions? Contact the Rev. Canon Emily Griffin at egriffin@saintmarks.org.

Cathedral Commons—Praying Shapes Believing: Common Prayer in the Episcopal/Anglican Tradition

by on February 25, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2026, 6:45–8:15 P.M.

Facilitated by Canon Weyls -- All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

There is an ancient adage in Christian liturgy that says, "the law of prayer establishes the law of belief." This class will examine "Common Prayer" in the Anglican tradition using the Book of Common Prayer as our resource. We will see how our common prayer expresses and supports our belief along the lifecycle and how can transform us and our world.

Intergenerational Prayer Partners for Lent and Eastertide, 2026

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Prayer Partners Resources

Here’s some inspiration for connecting weekly with and for your Prayer Partner! Please email Canon Wendy with your suggestions: wbarrie@saintmarks.org

◆ The Book of Common Prayer Online

  • Thanksgivings, BCP, p. 836–841
  • Daily Devotions, BCP, p. 137–140
  • Compline, BCP, p. 127

◆ The New Zealand Prayer Book Online

◆ The Work of the People

◆ Praying in Color

◆ Your favorite brief hymn or Taizé prayer

◆ A poem that speaks to you of the Holy

Registration is still open!

Register using this form.

ABOUT PRAYER PARTNERS

All members of the community of Saint Mark's are warmly invited to become an Intergenerational Prayer Partner, as part of special program lasting from Shrove Tuesday, February 18, through the Day of Pentecost, Sunday, May 24.

What does this mean?

Once you register to participate, you’ll be matched with a prayer partner of another generation, with whom you’ll regularly check in so you’ll better know their prayer needs. Perhaps you’ll sit together on Sunday mornings, and meet up occasionally at Saint Mark’s events, such as the Pancake Supper and the Pentecost Run/Ride/Roll.

How does this work?

You’ll fill out a brief form telling us which service you attend and what some of your interests are, we’ll do some match-making and put you in touch with your prayer partner by email. Then you and your assigned prayer partner will meet up at the Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras Pancake Supper or after church the following Sunday, get to know each other a bit, and begin praying for each other.

We’ll have a webpage with written prayers which you may choose to use, along with other creative prayer suggestions. There will also be a list of Saint Mark’s events you might choose to attend together over the three-month period.

Can children and youth participate?

Yes! Parents can sign up on behalf of children and youth can sign up with parental permission. In all emails, parents will be copied, and we are only meeting up during church events, so prayer partners of children and youth will never be meeting privately, following Safe Church policies.

Can I be matched with another adult?

Yes! Intergenerational simply means you’ll be paired with someone of another generation, and you can let us know if that’s your preference.

Why are we doing this?

We want to help cultivate and strengthen intergenerational relationships among Saint Mark’s parishioners, and we know from other congregations who have adopted this model as well as from several Saint Markians who tried it last year that it’s a great way for people to meaningfully connect and engage with each other.

Wisdom School—Write Around the Corner

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SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2026, 9 A.M.-12 P.M.
in person in Bloedel Hall and online via Zoom, registration required.

Facilitated by The Rev. Mary Lindberg

How do we write our way into the unknown during times of change in our lives? How can writing alone and with others give us clues about what lies beyond our thresholds, and empower us to take steps forward in faith? This writing workshop offers us the chance to discover wisdom, imagination, and connections to others through the written word. Pastor Mary Lindberg believes in the power of the pen as a spiritual tool. She serves as a Spiritual Director and leads writing groups, particularly with underserved groups, using the supportive Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) method. Mary has published books for adults and children.

Fee: $29 (includes sales tax now required by the state). Registration is required for in-person or online participation (register to receive Zoom link). 

About the Presenter

The Rev. Mary Lindberg is an ordained Lutheran (ELCA) pastor who believes in the power of the pen as a spiritual tool. She serves as a Spiritual Director and leads writing groups, particularly with underserved groups, using the supportive Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) method. Mary has published books for adults and children, including Jobs Lost, Faith Found: A Spiritual Resource for the Unemployed, and Helping Children Process Grief.

 

Fill out my online form.

Wisdom School – Silence and Honey Cakes: Lessons from the Desert for Modern Communities

by on February 21, 2026 with No Comments

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026

with the Rev. Sr. Miriam Elizabeth Bledsoe, OSH

From the beginning, we were created for belonging and community. And yet, community also comes with many challenges, including the temptations of individualism, conformity, competition and power. How do we discern and nourish the truth of who we are and who our neighbor is? How do we manage the variations of gifts, limitations, calls and vocations within our communities while also nurturing the persons in those communities and in the margins? The desert mothers and fathers of the 3rd and 4th centuries understood that the heart of the Christian path was communion with God and with one another. They also knew the challenges of belonging and community. These ammas and abbas will be our teachers as we explore belonging, loving, and navigating the blessings and temptations that can manifest in community.

About the Presenter

The Rev. Sr. Miriam Elizabeth Bledsoe, OSH

The Rev. Sr. Miriam Elizabeth (Faith) Bledsoe, OSH is a religious sister in the Order of Saint Helena, an Episcopal monastic order for women in North Augusta, SC, where she serves as the Community Leader. She has an active spiritual direction practice and is an experienced retreat leader. She serves as a supply priest in the Diocese of South Carolina and as a mentor for Backstory Preaching, an online ministry that helps preachers grow in the spirituality and craft of preaching. She received her M. Div. in 2002 from the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, TX and served churches in south Texas for nine years before joining the order. Prior to ordination, she worked as a hospital and rehabilitation speech pathologist. She enjoys kayaking on cool mornings, as well as all things creative including preaching, cooking, quilting and making art.

 

Cathedral Commons—Finding Portals into God’s Story: The Bible and Why We Read It (Especially) Today

by on February 18, 2026 with No Comments

MEETING RESOURCES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2026.  

Facilitated by Dean Thomason -- All are welcome, even if you aren't participating in the Contours process

“In Scripture, God has uttered for us, not the last word but the first—a word designed to set us off on pilgrimage, in pursuit of that life that God has willed for us to have.” (Wm. Countryman). As the opening foray into our Contours of the Christian Life series, Dean Thomason will offer some insights into prevailing themes, trajectories, and grounding theology found in our Scriptures, while those gathered reflect together on our questions: Why do we read these ancient books still? Through what lenses of interpretation do we read them? What do they have to say to us in our time? What can we learn from Scripture about who God is and who we are as God’s people? All are welcome to join, either in Bloedel or on Zoom.

“Lent is a Good Time for Life Planning Work”—A Message from Dean Thomason

by on February 18, 2026 with No Comments

FEBRUARY 18, 2026 (ASH WEDNESDAY)

Dear friends,

For Christians, the Season of Lent offers a certain wisdom—that death is understood not merely as an event that occurs at the end of life, but also as an ever-present character in the story of our lives. Death is a mystery to be contemplated while we live, and always by the light of resurrection hope. This important “life planning” work is holy work to which we are all called. There are three ways I want to invite you into this year:

  1. Planning your funeral
  2. Reviewing and updating (or creating) your will and estate plan
  3. End-of-life decisions (advance directives)

The order of these three is intended to be in reverse chronology. First, funeral planning. For several years now, I’ve made an annual appeal at the beginning of Lent for each adult at Saint Mark’s, regardless of your age, to undertake the work of planning your own funeral. Many of you have done so already: bless you… and this year take time this Lent to dust off your plan, review and update it if needed. If you’ve not yet taken this work on, I encourage you to include this work this year in your observance of a holy Lent. It is sacred work. Please reach out if you need guidance—Canon Rich, Canon Emily, our Curate Adam and I are glad to engage with you in this process or address any questions you may have.

These documents are also available at saintmarks.org/funeral. Ideally, you would complete this planning form (or as much as you’d like to complete) and provide a copy to the Dean’s office, where it will be kept on file, and held in confidence, until the time it is needed (hopefully a long time from now!) Of course, you can retrieve it, amend it, or replace it at any time (and many of us do).

Secondly, I want to once again broaden this invitation to include preparation (or review) of your will. Only one-third of Americans have a will when they die, making it especially difficult for their loved ones trying to work through probate. It is never too soon to give thought to that part of end-of-life planning, including provision for heirs and designating legacy gifts for charitable agencies to which you are committed. Again, Lent is a particularly poignant time to undertake this work, or to conduct an annual review of your estate documents.

We have also updated the Saint Mark’s Planned Giving brochure this year. It is intended to serve as a guide for you to consider how to leave a legacy gift to Saint Mark’s. Doing so, and letting Erik Donner or me know that you have, admits you to the Cathedral Legacy Society, which has nearly 300 members and counting. Your gifts and bequests will ensure this cathedral will continue to serve faithfully for generations to come.

Third, give consideration during this Lent to ponder what you want in health care decisions at you approach the end of life. As a hospice and palliative care physician, I could share story after story about how this advance work of decision-making is a sacred gift to your loved ones (and stories of tragic heartache when such direction was not provided). You may have an Advance Directive already—review it and see if it still works for you. If not, I commend to you Five Wishes as a way to consider such things. The cathedral clergy have copies of this booklet as well.  And then let your loved ones (and/or your doctor) know where it is.

All of this is holy work, my friends, wherever you are on the spiritual journey of life, wherever you are in the course of life. Again, your clergy are available to support you in this. I hope you will embrace this good work as part of your Lenten observance.

Blessings and peace,

The Very Reverend Steven L. Thomason
Dean and Rector

Sunday Forum—West Bank Realities with David Wild

by on February 11, 2026 with No Comments

SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 10:10 A.M. in Bloedel Hall

Moderated by Dean Thomason

The Holy Land is complicated, and peace seems so far off. Yet anyone who visits is captivated by the people and place. David Wild says: “After years of watching films and reading about the situation in Israel/Palestine, I decided to visit on my own. It was a surprising trip — I met remarkable people and was by myself at the Holy Sites. Being a filmmaker, I had to make something, and I came back with a message for my friends in the form of a 12-minute film. The trip inspired me and changed my life.”

We will then have a conversation, sharing our hopes and sorrows for the people who call this place home.

Note: Dean Thomason is planning a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2027 if conditions on the ground allow, and he will share more about that during the forum. All are welcome.

Cathedral Commons—A Holy Lent

by on February 4, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2026  

A Holy Lent

Each year on Ash Wednesday, we are invited "to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God's holy Word." At times, we may have heard that described as a time to “give something up” or “take something on.” What might it be like to approach a “Holy Lent” as an invitation to live incarnationally and sacramentally? Join Canon Wendy Claire Barrie and CSA Director the Rev. Carol Westpfahl as we explore spiritual practices meant to draw us closer to God.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper with Closing of the Doors

by on February 4, 2026 with No Comments

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 6–7:15 P.M., in the cathedral nave. Suggested donation: $6/child; $8/adult; $25/max. family. Registration requested.

It's time to party in the nave for Shrove Tuesday (a.k.a. Mardi Gras) before the start of Lent—load up pancakes with chocolate chips and whipped cream, chat it up with other cathedral parishioners, and listen to live music. We have crafts and games for the kids and kids-at-heart. Chef Marc Aubertin and the youth will be preparing our meal. In addition to pancakes, sausage, fruit, and toppings, Vestry members will provide jambalaya and gumbo.

The celebration in the nave will conclude with a brief liturgy to "bury the Alleluias" and close the great doors until Easter.

✅ We are requesting advance registration to assist in planning. Register using this form:

 

Cathedral Commons—Reflections on Hiking in Nepal

by on January 21, 2026 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2026  

Reflections on Hiking in Nepal with Canon Kleinschmidt

Canon Kleinschmidt will share stories, photos, and videos from his sabbatical project last October: a trek in the Himalayas of Nepal. The Sherpa people, Buddhist monks, yaks, helicopter pilots, fellow trekkers, stormy weather, and some of the most famous peaks and glaciers in the world will be featured, along with modest personal insights about the spiritual practices of sabbath-keeping and pilgrimage.

2026 Annual Parish Meeting & Elections

by on January 21, 2026 with No Comments

DOCUMENTS TO BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE MEETING:

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25, 2026

  • Meeting called to order at 8 A.M.
  • Voting, 8:05 A.M. - 12:45 P.M. (in person only)
  • Business Meeting, 12:30–2 P.M., Bloedel Hall and via Zoom

The 2026 Annual Meeting of St. Mark's Cathedral Parish, Seattle, will be on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. in Bloedel Hall and via Zoom. The meeting will include election of parish Vestry members and delegates/alternates to Diocesan Convention. A brochure featuring the candidates is now available, and will be available in the back of the nave starting Sunday, January 4. We’ll also hear reports from the Dean, Senior Warden, and ministry leaders. The Dean will bestow Pro Christo Awards. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our vibrant parish. As with last year, there will be no potluck meal, but light snacks and coffee/tea/water will be available to those in Bloedel Hall, and you are welcome to bring your own food if you find that helpful.

UPDATES

  • The slate of 12 candidates for Diocesan Convention Delegate was approved.
  • The new Vestry members elected to three-year terms were: Amanda Davis, John Gulhaugen, James Wilcox, and Sarah McCord.
  • The Dean appointed Julia Logan as Senior Warden.
  • The Pro Christo et Ecclesia medal was awarded to Randy Urmston, Eliza Davidson, and Re Knack

     

PLEASE NOTE:

  • The meeting will again be hybrid—you can attend in Bloedel Hall or via Zoom.
  • There will be no potluck meal again this year. Light snacks and coffee/tea/water will be available to those in Bloedel Hall, and you are welcome to bring your own food if you find that helpful.
  • Elections will occur as they did last year. Online voting for those joining the meeting remotely will not be available. Votes may be cast in person any time between 8:05 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. As usual, there is no early voting or proxy voting, per the cathedral by-laws. The election rules will be read by the Cathedral Chancellor during the meeting.

ELECTION RULES

Like last year, the Annual Meeting will be called to order in Thomsen Chapel at 8 a.m. to take nominations from the floor (if any). Voting will occur by paper ballot only, either at the table in the narthex between 8:05 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. or at the entry table in Bloedel Hall between 12:35–12:45 p.m. Online voting for those joining the meeting via Zoom is no longer available. Per cathedral bylaws, there is no early voting or proxy voting. Complete election rules are presented during the meeting.

WHO CAN VOTE IN THE PARISH ELECTION?

The Second Restated Bylaws of St. Mark’s Cathedral Parish (Art. 1, sec. 3) provide: "In accordance with the Constitution and Canons of the Diocese of Olympia, “Parish Communicants” are those baptized persons who are faithful in corporate worship and who have received the Sacrament of Holy Communion at Saint Mark’s at least three times during the previous year (unless good cause prevented)...”;  “Parish Communicants in Good Standing” are those Parish Communicants age sixteen years or older, who are recorded contributors to the support of Saint Mark’s with money or with personal service... Unless subsequently defined otherwise by Diocesan or Episcopal Church canons, “Parish Electors” shall include all the Parish Communicants in Good Standing.”

ADDITIONAL LINKS:

2026 Martin Luther King, Jr., Afternoon of Service

by on January 13, 2026 with No Comments

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18, 12:30 P.M., Bloedel Hall, registration requested. Lunch is available (suggested donation: $8/adult; $25/family max.).

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" —The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Join us on the Sunday of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend as people of all ages and abilities gather for a day of service. We’ll begin our afternoon together with a pizza lunch from Pagliacci (suggested donation: $8/adult; $25/family max) before heading out to support our community partners and care for our cathedral home.

We have a wide variety of ways to get involved, ranging from gentle, seated activities to active outdoor projects.

 

Offsite Service Teams

  • Casa Latina: Join a group traveling to work with women in our community as they prepare for their annual fundraiser.
  • L’Arche Angeline House & Lowell Elementary: We are sending teams for requested outdoor work. The forecast is calling for sun and 50 degrees—perfect weather to serve our neighbors near Volunteer Park!

 

Onsite Projects at the Cathedral

If you prefer to stay on campus, we have several essential projects running in Bloedel Hall and the sanctuary:

  • Outreach & Creativity: Making sandwiches for Operation Nightwatch, tying a quilt for Donna Jean's Place, and painting watercolor cards for Donna Jean’s residents and Lowell teachers.
  • Stewardship of Space: Deep cleaning of the nave woodwork, brass polishing, cobweb removal in the chapel, and detailing the Bloedel kitchen.

 

Registration is requested so we can plan for food and project supplies. You can indicate your physical activity preference when you sign up.

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