A Pastoral Look Back
St. Mark Baptist Church has a rich history spanning nearly a century,
marked by the dedication and leadership of several pastors:
Reverend
Dr. Sheldon D. McGowan
2024-Present
Became the 7th Senior Pastor of St. Mark in September 2024, continuing the legacy of leadership and service within the church community.
Reverend
Jarrod S. Parker
2017-2022
Became the 6th Senior Pastor of St. Mark in October 2017, serving for five years.
Reverend
Adam L. Burton
1986-2017
Became the 5th Senior Pastor of St. Mark in January 1986. Reverend Burton served St. Mark for an impressive 30 years, becoming the longest-serving pastor in the church's history. In recognition of his contributions, Adam L. Burton Boulevard was adopted and approved by the Omaha City Council in August 2017.
Reverend
L.D. Clemons
1973-1982
Became the 4th Senior Pastor of St. Mark in 1973. Under his leadership, the church achieved financial milestones, including paying off the mortgage ahead of schedule in 1982.
Reverend
Mark Marion
1955-1973
Succeeded his brother, Reverend Dan Marion, becoming the third Senior Pastor of St. Mark in 1955. Under his leadership, St. Mark experienced growth and relocated to the corner of 36th and Spaulding Avenue in 1972.
Reverend
Dan Marion
1955
Became the 2nd Senior Pastor of St. Mark in 1955, succeeding his uncle, Reverend Willie E. Marion.
Reverend
Willie E. Marion
1926-1955
Founder of St. Mark Baptist Church in June 1926. The church was initially located at the corner of 10th and Capitol Avenue before moving to a store-front building on 2705 Lake Street in 1937. Reverend Willie E. Marion served as the pastor for 29 years, establishing a strong foundation for the church.