Mark was born in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Lubbock. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University (BA), Columbia Theological Seminary (MDiv), and Loyola College in Maryland (MS, CAS). Ordained since 1980, Mark’s ministry has included a variety of settings, including smaller church, chaplaincy, pastoral psychotherapy, and large churches. Mark came to Covenant in 1999 and has served here as Associate for Pastoral Care and Congregational Life. Since 1989, Mark has specialized in the ministry of pastoral care.
Married to Mary Brown since 1979, they have three children: Bekah, Will, and David. Mary teaches in public elementary education.
Mark’s hobbies include enjoying music (of many genres), choral singing, games, electronic gadgets, hiking, travel, art, woodworking and yard work.
I believe that vital congregational life is characterized by two components: fellowship and care. Fellowship recognizes our connection as a community even when there may be forces that divide us rather than unite us. Relationships are founded on the basis of a common heritage and a common mission: we are brothers and sisters called to glorify the One who redeemed us (Ephesians 2; 19-22). Fellowship, therefore, is a family celebration expressing the joy and gratitude of the Christian life.
Christians, however, are not immune from trouble. Disciples who do the ministry of Jesus Christ are also people who need the ministry of Christ and his church. Opportunity exists within the life of the congregation to care for our own and to equip members for caring ministry. Compassionate caring embodies the Gospel message and fulfills the admonition of the Apostle Paul when he wrote, "So then, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith" (Galatians 6: 10).
The fellowship and caring offered by a church are vehicles God may use to encourage and heal and "make real" the grace of Jesus Christ. These important aspects or congregational life strengthen the body of Christ to more effectively reach out in mission beyond the Christian community into a world of great need.
I believe pastoral care is best expressed as one part of the congregation's total ministry, and that it cannot be divorced from the ministries of the Word and Sacrament, education, nurture, administration, and mission.
Skills that I exercise in ministry include an ability to listen and discern, a capacity to empathize and to communicate caring, a sense of humor and an ability to laugh at myself, and a deep respect for people and their experience.
My approach in preaching is to listen with the congregation to a Biblical text in order to find meaning and application for the deep concerns of people today. I believe that, like Jacob wrestling with the angel, we will be blessed as we allow ourselves to be engaged by the scripture. My preaching often involves stripping away preconceived notions about ourselves and God in order to find the genuine core of human life to which the Good News addresses itself.
At Covenant Church, I exercise the gifts which are most important to me: pastoral care and counseling; worship and preaching; integrating theology with personal faith and life; encouraging personal and community spiritual growth; and laughing whenever possible.
| Education | |
| 1991 | C.A.S. in pastoral counseling, Loyola College of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland |
| 1989 | M.S. in Pastoral Counseling, Loyola College of Maryland |
| 1980 | M.Div., Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Georgia |
| 1976 | B.A., (History), Texas Tech. University, Lubbock, Texas |
| Work Experience | |
| 1999-Present | Covenant Presbyterian Church, Associate Minister for Congregational Life and Pastoral Care |
| 1992-1999 | First Presbyterian Church, Nashville, Tennessee; Associate Pastor for Congregational Care and Counseling |
| 1989-92 | Pastoral Counseling Services of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland; Therapist |
| 1990-92 | Mount Paran Presbyterian Church, Randallstown, Maryland; Stated Supply Pastor |
| 1989-90 | Spring Grove State Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland; chaplaincy intern |
| 1983-88 | First Presbyterian Church, Monticello, Arkansas; Pastor |
| 1980-83 | Tallulah Presbyterian Church, Tallulah, Louisiana; Pastor |
| 1978-79 | First Presbyterian Church, Dalton, Georgia; youth coordinator |
"Endears readily, infectious laugh, jovial, a big teddy bear. Outstanding pastoral minister, lots of grace, very mature, thoroughly Reformed."
"Every time I'm in trouble, I want Mark."
"I would not be as involved in the church right now if it weren't for Mark."
"Brings a sense of calmness to a crisis; helps people with their anxiety."
"A peaceful presence. He works well with older adults and all other groups."
"Compassionate, gentle, always hugging and smiling, a big, booming laugh."
"He has a real gift."