Our Mission
Invite. Encounter. Respond.
Our mission is to invite others into relationships to encounter the love of Christ and respond by blessing others and transforming the world. We live into this mission through our worship, small groups, service projects, and missions.
Our Vision
To be a spiritual home where people encounter the love of Christ through life-giving relationships. As a community, we know we won't always be in agreement, but covenant to: love and forgive, encourage one another to grow in our faith and God-given talents, to create an environment of experimentation and exploration, and to always welcome the stranger and guest, helping others to find a home here, too.
Our Pastor
Reverend Mark Marston
Senior Pastor
Rev. Mark Marston was appointed to Park Church in July 2023 as pastor. He has most recently served at First United Methodist Church in Cheyenne, WY. His past appointments also include Aitkin United Methodist Church, so he is not a stranger to the Brainerd Lakes Area! He joins our church family with his wife, Beth, and daughter, Rachel.
Rev. Mark has a bachelor's degree in General Biology from Sonoma State University and a master's degree in Divinity from the Iliff School of Theology. He has been ordained for more than 30 years.
Our Associate Pastor
Pastor Jonathan Holland
Associate Pastor
Pastor Jonathan Holland was assigned to Park Church as associate pastor in August 2026. He has also been assigned to Motley United Methodist Church as lead pastor. Pastor Jonathan comes to the Minnesota Conference from serving in Salmon, Idaho. In this appointment, he is excited to truly make the church and the growth of the laity his highest priorities. A compassionate heart that forces him to try to look at other perspectives is Holland’s top spiritual gift.
In his past, Pastor Jonathan was a mathematical statistician for 16 years at the Census Bureau. His fun fact is that he was born in a hospital where there was one doctor, one nurse, and one cook.
Our Leadership
We’re grateful for each member and volunteer who helps us live into our mission. Behind everything we do are teams of great leaders who help us plan, discern, and live out our mission. Our leaders include:
Park Church Council
Sandy B., Council Chair
Our Church Council comprises elected leaders who oversee our properties, finances, staff, and the general mission of our church.
Family Ministries Team
Kati R., Coordinator
Our Family Ministry Team is a group of volunteers who plan events for families, outreach, and mission. This is a fun group of event planners and mission coordinators! Our primary focus is on intergenerational fun nights, Family-friendly outings, Parents' Night Out, and other events that support the families of our church and community.
Contact Us
We would love to hear from you. Connect with us by filling out the form in the link below.
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