How does one find out more about St. Mark’s UMC?

You may call the Church office at (540) 992-3030, or contact any of our Church staff directly:

Pastor: Rev. Dave Rochford

Bio: A native of Fairfax Co. VA, Dave came to us in July 2005 from Williamsburg UMC, Williamsburg, VA. A graduate of Davidson College, the University of Texas and Duke University (The Divinity School), Dave enjoys US history, hiking and obscure facts of all kinds. His wife, Dr. Lisa G. Rochford, is a clinical child psychologist in Salem. They have two young sons and an exhaustive knowledge of Sesame Street.

Director of Youth Ministries: Katie Pickard

Bio: Katie arrived at St. Mark’s in January 2006 as our first full-time Director of Youth Ministries, and has been a purposeful blur ever since. Originally from Lafayette, LA, Katie is a Methodist who was raised Lutheran, went to an Episcopal high school and a Methodist college (Randolph Macon Women’s College), and has worked in small-group and young adult ministries in a large Midwestern Presbyterian Church. Katie is recently married to Phillip Pickard of Roanoke.

Director of Music Ministries: Deborah Wiley

Bio: Born in Roanoke County and raised there and in Botetourt, Deborah has spent her life in the love of music. With a BA and an MA from Radford University, Deborah has headed music ministry in the Wesleyan, Brethren, Baptist and most recently United Methodist traditions. In her ‘spare time’ she is the Choral Director for both Lord Botetourt and James River High Schools.

How does one join St. Mark’s?

Perhaps you have been visiting St. Mark’s and would like to know why we worship the way we do. Maybe you are a life-long Presbyterian or Baptist, and have wondered whether life as a Methodist would agree with you! All these wonderings are at the core of our Newcomers’ Class, which meets on Sunday mornings during the Sunday School hour. On a quarterly basis, this six-session class introduces people to Methodism and asks the question: do people join denominations anymore, or is it really just about the local church? Does it matter? We also take the opportunity to explore some of the many ministries at St. Mark’s and get to know each other better. With any question, call Rev. Dave at 992-3030. The Class is open to all, and recommended to all those considering joining St. Mark’s. Child care is provided.