Welcome Pastor Andy!
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We are thrilled to announce that Pastor Andy Jones will join Pastor Giselle and Pastor Jay in ministry at Bridge of Peace Community Church in Camden, NJ, and St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Oaklyn, NJ.
Pastor Andy's official start date was October 1st, and we are excited to welcome him to our community!
A Little About Pastor Andy:
Pastor Andy earned his Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary in the spring of 2023. His ministry is driven by a passion for exploring how faith, public life, and God's mercy intersect through the love of Jesus Christ. Although he was born and raised in Roanoke, Virginia, Andy has embraced New Jersey as his new home and is looking forward to establishing deep connections within both the Bridge of Peace and St. Mark’s communities.
Before pursuing ministry, Pastor Andy completed his undergraduate degree in History and Security Studies from East Carolina University. After working in food service and manufacturing, he answered the call to seminary, which led him to Princeton and eventually to us here at Bridge of Peace and St. Mark’s.
What Pastor Andy Loves About Ministry:
For Pastor Andy, the most fulfilling aspect of ministry is the sense of community it fosters. He believes that regardless of a church's form, God is present in its midst, working through His people. Pastor Andy is eager to nurture this sense of togetherness, walking alongside both congregations as they continue to grow in faith and service.
A Few Fun Facts:
In his leisure time, Pastor Andy enjoys reading, especially fiction and theology, playing the flute, and spending time outdoors. An avid fisherman and gardener, he delights in making the most of New Jersey’s natural beauty during the summer and fall. When he's not outdoors, Pastor Andy can often be found enjoying quality time with his family and friends.
Say Hello!
We encourage everyone to extend a warm welcome to Pastor Andy! Feel free to reach out to him via email at PastorAndy@stmarksoaklyn.com to introduce yourself or just say hello. He is excited to get to know each of you!
We are looking forward to the journey ahead with Pastor Andy and are excited to see what God has in store for us as he becomes a part of our community!
We are a Reconciling in Christ Congregation
We, the people of St. Mark Lutheran Church commit to being a Reconciling in Christ Congregation. We welcome because Jesus shows us how to welcome in the Gospels, regardless of race or culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or relationship status. As followers of Christ, who calls us to reconciliation and wholeness, we welcome all who are seeking God. We are committed to the work of anti-racism, bringing justice for all God’s beloveds. We welcome you without regard to addictions, physical or mental health, imprisonment, socio-economic circumstances, or anything that too often divides us. Our unity is in Christ.
What We Believe
We know that laughter, joy and fun are vital to life!
We worship God, who loves us always.
God is the Father who creates us, the Son who saves us, and the Holy Spirit who guides us.
We believe that the Bible is the word of God. It is a story of God’s love that provides hope and peace for daily life. As such, it is a timeless message that brings joy and fulfillment. The heart of this message is God’s free and ever-flowing gift of grace in which we hear the good news that we are loved and forgiven.
We believe that loving God and loving others is the key to life’s joy! This love transforms lives, families, communities and gives hope and purpose.
We are a community of people who come together to live out this purpose – to connect people to God and one another.
All are welcome!