Crossing Countries and Finding Community – Cardiff

“It has been a great joy and privilege over the last few years to welcome many people into our church family at St Mark’s, Gabalfa, from countries all around the world”, writes the Reverend Marcus Nelson, vicar of St Mark’s Evangelical Anglican Church, Cardiff.

“We recently counted about 30 nationalities across our Sunday services and mid-week groups! In the midst of a world tearing itself apart along every possible fracture line, we are finding that Jesus is building an international church family. His gospel is for everyone, He belongs to the whole world. Many people who have been forced to leave their homelands are finding a new home in church. Our growing ethnic diversity has been such a great blessing to us. People from around the world who love Jesus, honour the scriptures and have suffered for global and historic Christian faith are challenging and enriching us in countless ways. Sometimes we can be tempted to think that church is a dwindling institution of the past, unable to deal with the challenges of society and culture today. We are finding the very opposite to be true, and discovering renewed confidence that church with Jesus at the centre is the hope of the world. If you read three stories below, I’m sure you will agree.”

Angie’s Story

I am Angie and my family have been to St Mark’s for more than a year now. I had no doubt about joining the big family after my first visit here. All the church members are absolutely welcoming no matter your status and nationality. They support and care for everyone with their loving hearts without bias. My two kids were baptised here last year and have been enjoying the Sunday school, regular and holiday activities so much for different age groups. St Mark’s gives individuals spiritual Support and guidance. It is like a Moral Compass helping individuals navigate ethical decisions. We have prayer meetings, home groups and educational programs helping deepen the knowledge of Christian teachings. There are fascinating services, special events and they even give away food and necessities to all people in need. The volunteers and the church serving restlessly and selflessly throughout the year.

Raju’s Story

My name is Raju Shrestha. I am from Nepal. I came here to complete my master’s degree. I am studying Applied Public Health at Cardiff Metropolitan University. As I came here, one of my priorities was to find a good church, where I can worship and praise the name of my Lord Jesus Christ. I was in prayer from long time about this. While me and my wife Anita came here in August 2023, we were unaware about any church here. As we came, we were just walking out in street, and we saw St Marks church and the board in the wall with the timetable for the fellowship. The following Sunday we went there, and we were warmly welcomed. Since then, I regularly go there for the fellowship. I feel really blessed to be a part of St Marks Church. I feel like a family there. The way we worship the Lord and the way the team lead all of us is simply amazing. All the church members are so friendly and take care of us. Though I am very far away from my country, I never feel sad, because of this family I have got by the grace of God. This is how God has answered my prayer. I celebrated my first Christmas in St Marks, and I am so happy that it was my one of the best Christmas celebrations ever. I enjoy all the services here, whether it is small groups or the fresh start on Tuesday and Saturday morning. I had never expected to get this love and care after leaving my country and family.

Tari’s Story

Our journey to UK began in January 2022 when I got enrolled in Cardiff Metropolitan University for my MBA. Being a family of eight from Nigeria, we decided, I should come in first, settle accommodation before the others come to join me. Unfortunately, UK Visas and Immigration, granted me, my wife and one of my daughter’s visas but refused the others, this resulted in my wife shuttling between Lagos and Cardiff. In one of those visits, she visited St Marks, and excitedly came home like the Samarian woman by the well that she has found a church we can worship. Our initial plan was to visit various churches and prayerfully choose the one we would fellowship with, so after much persuasion I visited St Marks as our first ‘church inspection’ and was humbled to experience a church that continuously exceeds our expectations.