Our People
Julie Finneran
I came across St. Mark’s and Unitarianism about eight years ago and very quickly felt comfortable with the congregation, the services and the general atmosphere. I don’t come from a religious background and personally feel very awkward about being in any way obliged to subscribe to a set of views about which I have doubts. Also, as I don’t want to limit myself to one fixed set of ideas, it seems reasonable to take what suits me from many different philosophies as I rather enjoy my ambiguities. In fact it is absolute certainty which unnerves me! I feel very comfortable at St. Mark’s as there is no set creed, but rather an ongoing inquiry into the small details of life and existence as well as the ‘bigger’ questions. I particularly like the poetry and humour and the time for reflection to music and silence. Currently, I would probably best describe myself as a ‘spiritual humanist’ or an ‘optimistic agnostic’.
I also value being part of a community composed of many different individuals who all share a basic human warmth and mutual respect for each other and the Earth. I enjoy the social aspects of being part of a congregation and the social good which this can engender and I value the cyclical nature of the different seasons and festivals which we celebrate. I feel that St. Mark’s is for anyone who has a notion that they would like to take a little time away from the everyday humdrum material considerations of life and make some space to dream, reflect and consider.
Mike West - Retired Civil Servant
“If I could have my life over again, I would support these people.” The elderly friend who made this remark was a kindred spirit, so when she showed me a copy of Waymark, curiosity did the rest. I looked in on St Mark’s the following Sunday and became a member a few months later.
That was 1979, so over 40 years have now gone by since her chance remark. Despite my background as a Scottish Episcopalian, I suspect I occupy the mid-ground at St Mark’s, being more attracted by theism than the Christocentric or humanist wings of our denomination. Meditation attracts me more as the years go by. I find walking the hills, usually on my own and in good weather, is a real pleasure and can create a mental state and feeling of harmony. But in terms of belief, “living in the question” and “seeing through a glass darkly” is my experience and ageing makes my beliefs less, rather than more, certain.
Joan Cook - Lay celebrant (available for rites of passage)
Why I Am A Unitarian
What appeals to me about Unitarianism is it's inclusiveness. I cannot believe that any one religion has a monopoly on God, and the idea of a God who reserves benefits for an exclusive few, whilst denying them to others, I find a rather limiting view. We all have to find our own set of truths, and the ability to draw from other traditions is a great advantage, and Unitarianism enables and encourages us to do that.
What I like about St. Mark's
Perhaps St. Mark's greatest asset is the congregation or community, itself. Whether you are a traditionalist, liberal, erratic attendee or enquirer, you are accepted on your own terms. St. Mark's has also provided a suitable environment for me to help my own children learn about the views of others, as well as develop their own personal set of beliefs.