Pastor Marks is a child of God, baptized as an infant in Middletown, CT, where he grew up. He is husband to Naomi and father to eight children ranging in age from 15 years to 1 year old. Pastor Marks was called to Emmanuel upon the completion of his seminary studies at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN and began serving the church in June of 2021. He relies on Scripture to be his guide and he often is reminded of the words of Proverbs 3:5-6 which read, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”

Pastor Marks actively supports Naomi in the homeschooling of each of their children, which they have done since Jonah was born. Jonah, now in 10^th grade, and the rest of the children, Betsy (9^th), Tim (7^th), Kari (5^th), Greta (4^th), Isaac (1^st), Charlie (2 yrs.) and Frieda (1 year) all enjoy the self-directed pace of their schooling while fulfilling all their necessary requirements. Pastor Marks is also active in many of the activities the family participates in outside the home, including sports, library activities, field trips, and has an active role in the leadership of the boys’ Trail Life troop. He also enjoys spending time in the shop tinkering on various woodworking projects, cheering for the Red Sox, UCONN Huskies, and Buffalo Bills, and would love to get in a round of golf if time ever permits.

At Emmanuel, Pastor Marks loves to lead the liturgy and preach, and actively seeks ways to deepen members’ relationships with Christ while reaching out to the community with the love of God and invitations to join the people of Emmanuel in worship, fellowship and service. He is particularly passionate about family ministry and helping families of all shapes and sizes make their homes a center of faith development and nurture. Pastor Marks would love to speak with you about your faith, your questions, or anything else that’s on your mind.