Past Events

2nd Annual Christmas Gala

In a powerful display of unity and service, Saint Mark AME Zion Church partnered with five local congregations—Saint James AMEZ, Samaritan House, Valley Presbyterian, New Sweet Home COGIC, and EPA Apostolic—to host our 2nd Annual Christmas Gala. We rolled out the red carpet and welcomed over 200 seniors for a first-class brunch and an uplifting afternoon of gospel music.

With the support of over 40 dedicated volunteers and the presence of city officials, the event was a true celebration of community. More than $20,000 in gift cards and gifts were joyfully distributed to our honored guests, making this a day of joy, generosity, and unforgettable fellowship.

Purple background with hanging green Christmas ornaments and glittering gold accents. Text announces the 2nd annual Christmas Gala and Brunch for OC Santa, scheduled for Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 12 pm to 2:30 pm at EPA Apostolic Church, located at 721 Dorsefield St., East Palo Alto, CA, with details about sponsors, activities, and RSVP instructions.
Three people celebrating at an event, with a woman in a yellow jacket holding a microphone, another woman in black smiling, and a seated man in a suit and tie, with a harp in the background.
Poster advertising an event titled "7 Last Sayings of Jesus Christ from 7 Women Preachers," featuring photographs and names of seven women pastors from various churches, including St. James AMEZ Church, Congregational Church of San Mateo, Trinity Baptist Church, Orchard Valley Christian Church, Saint Mark AMEZ Church, First United Methodist Church, and Palo Alto Vineyard Church.

The 7 Last Sayings of Jesus Christ from 7 Women Preachers

The Word of God knows no gender—and on this powerful evening, seven dynamic women of God brought Scripture to life with boldness, clarity, and anointing. Each message went forth with power and was received with open hearts by all in attendance.

The atmosphere was electric, the Spirit was present, and the impact was undeniable. If you missed it this year, we hope you'll join us next time—this is truly a can't-miss event that continues to uplift, inspire, and transform.

Five people standing outdoors at a public event under a blue canopy, smiling at the camera. They are wearing sunglasses and hats, with one woman wearing a black shirt with the word 'Blues' on it and another woman wearing an A's baseball jersey.

St Mark Ame Zion the Community Prayer Booth at the 2022 Blue's Festival

At the 2022 Blues Festival, Saint Mark AME Zion Church showed up with a purpose by hosting a Community Prayer Booth. Surrounded by music, food, and fellowship, we offered a space for prayer, encouragement, and connection.

Our ministers and volunteers prayed with dozens of community members, shared words of hope, and extended the love of Christ beyond the church walls. It was a powerful reminder that ministry can happen anywhere—and that God's presence meets us right where we are.

Event flyer for community gathering on August 28 with activities like food trucks, snacks, inflatables, game booths, music, bible stories, prayers, and gifts at Bell Street Park, EPA from 1 to 6 PM, sponsored by the faith community of EPA, featuring large bold text saying 'Ignite Peace Pray EPA'.

Ignite Peace: Pray EPA – Community Prayer Against Violence (8/28/22)

On August 28, 2022, Saint Mark AME Zion Church joined over one thousand churches and faith-based partners in a powerful movement of unified prayer for the city of East Palo Alto. Rooted in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him...”, Ignite Peace: Pray EPA was a heartfelt response to a devastating wave of violence in our city.

The event was sparked by a tragic and senseless murder that took place in broad daylight at Jack Farrell Park, leaving the community shaken—especially after a video of a young girl fleeing and calling for her father went viral. The urgency for healing and action was undeniable.

Through Zoom and in-person gatherings, believers from across East Palo Alto and as far as Redding, California, came together. Over 3,000 people participated in this citywide prayer event—crying out for peace, safety, and transformation. It was a true demonstration of faith, unity, and the unwavering power of prayer.