As the cathedral church for the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, Saint Mark’s seeks to be a place where all people encounter the living God and the reconciling Gospel of Jesus Christ. Wherever you are on your journey of faith, you are welcome at Saint Mark’s.
When are services?
The full worship schedule may be found here. The principal Sunday morning services are at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Other Sunday liturgies include the 8 a.m. Chapel Eucharist, 7 p.m. Contemplative Eucharist, 4:30 p.m. Evensong (first Sunday of the month only), and 9:30 p.m. Compline.
How long are the services?
The 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday services at Saint Mark’s last a little over one hour. Other services may run shorter. Watch video of recent services here.
What should I wear?
You will find people dressed very casually (jeans, shorts, t-shirts, etc.), more formally and a great variety in between. Just be yourself. You will fit in.
Where should I sit?
Saint Mark’s has two sections of pews and two sections of chairs, as well as bench seating along the walls. Sit wherever you are comfortable, or ask an usher for guidance. Make yourself at home. By the south wall (to the left) there is a rug where small children are welcome to move around and play quietly, if desired, and parents can sit on the chairs or benches nearby.
UPDATE: At this time the wearing of masks is recommended (not required) Learn more here. The south section of the cathedral nave is a designated "distanced area" where all must remain masked and distanced from other household groups. There is open seating in the rest of the nave.
Should I bring my Bible?
Just bring yourself. Everything you need, including Scripture readings, is printed in the service leaflet, which the ushers will give you. View a sample service leaflet here.
Who may receive Holy Communion?
All are welcome at Christ's table.
Where should I park?
There is parking to the north and south of the cathedral building. Parking in the lot is free and unrestricted all day on Sundays and for special events as posted. (Parking restrictions apply Monday–Saturday.) Street parking is also available in the neighborhood.
Can I bring my children to church services?
Children are welcome and active participants in all Saint Mark’s liturgies.
On Sunday morning there is an area for quiet play on the carpet located along the south wall of the cathedral, with activity bags for younger children. We offer a variety of programs especially for children and youth on Sunday and at other times.
Mothers are most welcome to breastfeed their infants during the service—rocking chairs for that purpose are available near the Children's Carpet in the nave. You are also welcome to go to other quiet places to breastfeed; ask an usher for guidance.
Can my children receive Communion?
All are welcome at God's Table for Holy Communion, and that includes children (at their parents’ discretion). If you would like your child to learn more about the sacrament before receiving, please contact a member of the clergy or Canon for Intergenerational Ministries Wendy Claire Barrie. Alternatively, anyone (children or adults) are welcome to come forward at the time of Communion to receive a blessing from a priest instead, signaled by crossing your arms over your chest.