Let’s Get Acquainted
What is St. Mark’s Cathedral?
About Us
Our Mission
To love and serve Christ.
To love and serve one another in Christ.
To love and serve the world in Christ.
New Here?
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Sunday worship?
Holy Eucharist is every Sunday morning at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM in the main Cathedral unless otherwise notified.
Where is the entrance?
There are several entrances to the church. The main entrance is located by the large
transept window in the parking lot close to Kings Hwy. There will be ushers to greet you and answer any questions. Programs are available to follow along with the service.
Where do my children go?
Children are welcome to attend Holy Eucharist and be with their families.
Who can help me?
The obvious answer is anybody here is willing and excited about helping and
welcoming you when you visit us at St. Mark’s, but we understand that can be
easier said than done when you don’t know who to ask for help.
Our Ushers are around the Cathedral ready to assist in any ways possible.
How do I follow the service?
Following along with an Episcopal service can be very easy, even if you are new
to the church. Here is what you need to know: the ushers will hand you an order
of service when you walk in. With this, you can follow along with the service. There will be standing, sitting, and kneeling during the service. It isn’t required, but it’s always best to follow along with the congregation if this is your first time trying the Episcopal church.
How do I get involved or find a group to join?
Please review the website for a wide variety of offerings for you and your family.
There are sections for Children, Youth and Adults.
For more information, please contact the church office at 318-221-3360.
Booklets
Helpful Content
St. Mark’s Cathedral
Our History
The Episcopal Church in northwest Louisiana can trace its roots back to March of 1839, when on the banks of the Red River, Bishop Leonidas Polk held the first formal church service in what was then the newly established town of Shreveport.
Although his visit was controversial at a time when Shreveport was known to be an almost lawless gambling and trading town on the edge of the Texas Territory, the same small group who came to listen to Bishop Polk began to grow in numbers and eventually organized themselves into St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in 1859. St. Mark’s is considered by many local historians to be the oldest documented church congregation in the area.
The small parish grew rapidly over the years with Shreveport and in 1957 we moved from what is now Holy Cross Episcopal Church downtown on Cotton Street to our current structure on Fairfield Avenue in the historic Highland neighborhood. The church you see today was designed by local architect and parishioner Jack Annan. St. Mark’s became the Cathedral church of the Diocese of Western Louisiana in 1990.
Overlooking the intersection of Kings Highway and Fairfield Avenue, St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral is a local landmark. The structure is considered to be one of the finest examples of 14th Century English Gothic architecture in the region and it dominates the surrounding landscape.
While the bell tower is modeled after the tower at Magdalen College in Oxford, England, the rest of the structure is completely original.
Our Mission
Campaign Videos
Prepare Ye The Way! Little School- Complete The Campaign
Public Declarance
Baptism
Time
Third Sunday of the month during the 10:30 a.m. service
Baptism is the initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the Church. In the Episcopal Church, Baptism is the entry rite into the Christian life. The sacrament takes place usually on the third Sunday of the month during the 10:30 a.m. service. Please contact Cynthia Anderson at cynthia@stmarkscathedral.net or at 318-221-3360 for more info.
Comfort & Grief
Funerals
Leadership
Meet Our Clergy
abjohnson@stmarkscathedral.net
The Very Rev. Alston Johnson
The Very Reverend Alston Boyd Johnson is a native of Mississippi, and was ordained in the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi. He attended The McCallie School in Chattanooga, and then graduated from the University of Vermont, Burlington. After receiving an MDiv. and STM degree from the School of Theology at Sewanee, Dean Johnson served parishes in the Mississippi Delta and greater Jackson area. Prior to serving at St. Mark’s, he was the rector of Chapel of the Cross, Madison, Mississippi.
In the past he has served as a Volunteer Chaplain at Parchman Prison in Mississippi, and has served as a Commissioned Officer and Chaplain in the Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve Command. His last appointment was with the 307th Bomb Wing at Barksdale AFB.
Dean Johnson enjoys reading, music, and the outdoors. He and his wife, Liza Jabaley Johnson, have four children – Benjamin, Theresa Fay, Georgia Kate, and Robert. They share an active family life. Liza is a physician with the Overton-Brooks VA Hospital in Shreveport. They have three dogs – Andy Griffith, George Bailey, and Zuzu’s Petals.
thomas@stmarkscathedral.net
Reverend Thomas Timothy Nsubuga
The Reverend Thomas Timothy Nsubuga is a native of Uganda, East Africa but now canonically resident in the Diocese of Western Louisiana. Thomas was ordained a priest in Namirembe Diocese, Uganda 25 years ago. Since then, he has served in various places and capacities in the Church of Uganda, and the Episcopal Church, of the United States.
Before coming to St. Mark’s, Thomas served as the Vicar at St. Luke’s Episcopal Chapel, Grambling, LA and prior to that as associate priest at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, Oakland, CA.
Thomas is a graduate of Makerere University in Uganda, Cranmer Theological House (now in Houston, TX). His area of theological pursuit is conversion, particularly asking why a Christian would choose to convert to Islam. His hobby is collecting classic old (fountain) pens. He is married to Erinah and God has blessed them with two daughters: Joanitah and Leah.
frpauldmartin@gmail.
Father Paul Martin
The Rev. Paul D. Martin was born and raised in Cincinnati Ohio. A lifelong Episcopalian he was involved in many aspects of the Church growing up. After graduating from Wabash College with dual majors in Religion and Music, he went to seminary at the University of the South, Sewanee receiving his M.Div. (Fr. Martin worked on his D. Min. from Sewanee.) Upon graduating from Sewanee, he was ordained Deacon in Indianapolis June 11, 1975, but did his deacon’s year at Coventry Cathedral, Coventry England. Fr. Martin was ordained priest at Coventry Cathedral on June 29 th , 1976.
After leaving Coventry Cathedral, Fr. Martin served a parish in the southern suburbs of London, St. Phillip’s, Norbury which was part of the Diocese of Canterbury at that time, Archbishop Donald Coggin being his Diocesan. In 1980, Fr. Martin and his family moved to serve at St. John’s, Charlotte NC where he was a full time youth minister. In 1990 he moved to be Rector at St. John’s, Minden LA, then as Rector at The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit, Lafayette LA, then in 1997 moved to be youth minister at St. Paul’s, Shreveport. Fr. Martin became Rector of St. Paul’s May, 2012. Upon his mandatory retirement in 2021, he recently has accepted a position at St. Mark’s Cathedral as Priest Resident.
Staff
Ministry Leaders
Hispanic Ministry
hispanicministrysmc@gmail.com
Jesús Bulnes
Jesús Bulnes serves at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Shreveport, Louisiana, as Coordinator of the Cooking Crew and Coordinator of the Hispanic Congregation. Through both ministries, he expresses his deep commitment to servant leadership—nourishing body and spirit through hospitality, fellowship, and the proclamation of the Gospel.
Born in Comayagua, Honduras, Jesús was raised in a devoted Christian family where faith, service, and trust in God were central to daily life. He earned a law degree from the Autonomous University of Honduras in 1992 and later practiced law in his hometown. After facing serious danger due to his wife’s firm stand for justice, their family fled Honduras in 2000 and came to the United States. This difficult season became a time of discernment and renewal.
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Jesús and his wife, Ely, earned Master of Theological Studies degrees from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis in 2004. That same year, they began Hispanic ministry at Kings Highway Christian Church in Shreveport. For seventeen years, Jesús served the Hispanic community through worship leadership, outreach programs, ESL classes, and compassionate care.
In 2023, the Hispanic congregation began worshiping at St. Mark’s Cathedral, where many have embraced the Episcopal tradition and sacramental life. Having been confirmed in the Episcopal Tradition, Jesús now offers himself in humble discernment within the Episcopal Church.
With gratitude and faith, he continues to serve Christ and his people, trusting that God guides every step.
ebulnes@smc.school
Ely Bulnes
Chaplain B. (Ely Bulnes) serves as Chaplain and Christian Education Teacher at St. Mark’s Cathedral School, a ministry she began in June 2022. Confirmed into the Episcopal Church in May 2023, she has come to recognize her work with children and families as a joyful and faithful expression of God’s ongoing call in her life.
Ely’s connection to St. Mark’s began in 2004 when her daughter entered first grade. In 2012, she joined the faculty as Middle School Spanish teacher, serving until 2024. Her years in education overlapped with seventeen years of pastoral ministry as Associate Minister at Kings Highway Christian Church in Shreveport. Through preaching, teaching, and pastoral accompaniment in a second language, she learned humility, dependence on God, and trust in the Spirit’s work beyond her own limitations.
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Ely’s journey has been shaped by courage and trust in God. Born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, she was raised in a devoted Christian family. She initially trained as a lawyer and served as a criminal court judge. When standing firm in her convictions placed her family in danger, so she, her husband, and their young daughter fled to the United States in 2000. During this period of transition, she earned a Master of Theological Studies degree from Christian Theological Seminary, a step that deepened her discernment and prepared her for a life of ministry.
Today, Ely takes great joy in walking alongside children as they grow in faith. She loves helping them listen to God’s voice and guiding them to follow Christ’s invitation: “Let the little children come to me.”
With humility and hope, Ely continues to serve, trusting that the same faithful God who has led her through every chapter will continue to guide her steps.
Music
derrick@stmarkscathedral.net
Derrick Meador
Derrick Meador is an organist and conductor based in Shreveport, Louisiana. He has been heard in many leading recital venues across the United States and Europe including the Świnoujście International Music Festival (Poland), National City Christian Church (Washington, D.C.), St. James Cathedral (Toronto, Ontario), and recent performances in Houston, Seattle, and Syracuse, among others. A champion of living composers, Meador has commissioned many works by New York-based composer Buck McDaniel. Since 2021, he has served as Organist & Choirmaster at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, where he leads an historic music program rooted in the Anglican choral tradition. Meador received his Master of Music degree from the University of Houston under Dr. Robert Bates, and the Bachelor of Music degree from William Carey University under Prof. Kathy Vail. He has also studied with Dr. Jeffrey R. McLelland, harpsichord with Dr. Matthew Dirst, and received private coaching from Dame Gillian Weir in London.
Youth/Kids
amy@stmarkscathedral.net
Amy Garsee
Amy Garsee is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in vocational education. She has been an educator for 20 years, teaching at Mansfield High School and at St. Mark’s Cathedral School. She also has served as the Food Service Director at DeSoto Regional Health System and as the office manager for her family’s business, Jones Electric Inc. She has worked with all grades from PreSchool 2 to 12th grade and has taught Home Economics, Science and Christian Education to many students. She lives in Mansfield, in the house that belonged to her grandmother, with her husband Jeff and her 3 daughters, Taylor (20), Elizabeth (11), and Adeline (11). She enjoys spending time with her family, coaching swimming lessons, and participating in the Walk to Emmaus. She also loves to craft, read, cook and to teach others how to craft and cook.
Amy believes in the saying “Train up a child in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it.” The lessons learned today, during childhood and youth, are so very important in the formation of the adult for the future. She is looking forward to helping the youth deepen their faith and take ownership of their relationship with Christ, while forming relationships with others and showing God’s love. She is also looking forward to coming alongside the volunteers and parents in our children’s and youth ministry to carry out the mission of St. Mark’s Cathedral.
Laura@stmarkscathedral.net
Laura Grayson Ameen
Laura Grayson was brought up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana but has lived in Shreveport for the last 10+ years. She received her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Millsaps College in Jackson, MS where she met her husband Michael. Upon moving to Shreveport, Laura Grayson began working for Heard, McElroy & Vestal CPAs in their Business Valuation department. She worked for HMV for several years before eventually taking time off to focus on raising their three children, Lizzy, Michael Paul, and Grayson.
Laura Grayson has been a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church and has served in different youth related volunteer roles for various events like Happening, Youth Rally, Vacation Bible School, the Children’s Christmas pageant, etc. She currently serves on the Altar Guild and as a Catechist for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd at St. Mark’s.
Laura Grayson enjoys baking and trying new recipes, spending time with her family and friends, and watching the LSU Tigers.
smceyc318@gmail.com
Sarah Wilkes
Sarah Kaye Wilkes and her husband Todd Thompson were married in the courtyard at St. Mark’s in November 2020. Sarah Kaye has worked as an Environmental Geologist since graduating from Centenary College in 2013. Todd graduated from Louisiana Tech and currently works as the Construction Manager at Manchac Consulting Group. In their free time they enjoy spending time with friends and family, cheering on the Tigers and Saints, traveling and listening to live music, and bringing their rescue pup Sadie along for every adventure they can!
Another passion in Sarah Kaye’s life is lacrosse. She has coached youth girls in the area since 2009 and won the Natural State High School State Championship in 2021! Sarah Kaye has been involved with the youth at St. Mark’s for the past few years and is looking forward to helping further grow the youth activities in the years to come!
preschool.beth@gmail.com
Beth Reeks
Beth Reeks has been a member of St. Mark’s since the late 80’s. She has served in EYC, Altar Guild, Mother’s Day Out program, Vacation Bible School, preschool Sunday School and Chapel, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and currently in the nursery.
She married her husband, Scott in 1991 at St. Mark’s. Their children are Caroline and Seth and his wife Brennan. They also have 3 cats—Minou, Lilbit and Blackie. Their granddogs are Livi and Booty.
Beth is a native of Mobile, Alabama. She taught for 38 years in Caddo Parish schools and is currently teaching Kindergarten at First Baptist Church School. She graduated from Mississippi University for Women (BS), Centenary College (M. Ed) and Louisiana Tech (+30) along with being a National Board Certified teacher.
Beth enjoys cooking, cross-stitching, reading, Houston Astros and the Auburn Tigers.
aubrey@stmarkscathedral.net
Aubrey Gill
Aubrey Gill graduated from Calvary Baptist Academy in 2026 and is a freshman at Louisiana State University Shreveport. She is studying Early Childhood Education. Aubrey worked as an ASM worker at St Marks Cathedral School from December 2024 to August 2026. Her mother, Jennifer Gill, is a preschool teacher at St Marks Cathedral School and her father, Jason GIll, is an employee at Air Systems. She has 1 older brother, Colton Gill, who is a football coach at Parkway High School. Colton’s wife, Anna Gill, is a therapist. She enjoys babysitting, being with her friends, and crafting. Aubrey loves spending time with her 5 cats – Dinah, Alice, Stitch, Phoebe, and Waffles – and 2 Australian Shepherds – Stella and Scout.
Aubrey has worked 3 summer camps at St Marks and loves working with children and helping others learn. She wishes to become a preschool teacher in hopes to teach the future generations.
Administrative
bess@stmarkscathedral.net
Bess Maxwell
Bess Maxwell has been part of the Cathedral staff since 2007, coming to St. Mark’s after an almost thirty year career in radio and television news. In her current position of Administrative Assistant, Bess edits the church newsletters and Sunday bulletins and keeps the church records among numerous other duties. She is a Stephen Minister, a past Altar Guild Directress, and a Cathedral Verger and she also serves as the Diocesan Verger for the Diocese of Western Louisiana.
She serves on several Diocesan committees and boards. Away from St. Mark’s, Bess serves on the board of the Oakland Cemetery Preservation Society and the Shreveport Journalism Foundation and enjoys reading and traveling.
cynthia@stmarkscathedral.net
Cynthia Anderson
Cynthia Anderson is a native of England. She graduated from King’s College, University of London with degrees in law as well as theology. Cynthia was admitted as solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales and to the Louisiana State Bar. She has over 40 years in practice of law with Cook, Yancey, King and Galloway.
jim_sport@hotmail.com
Jim Anderson
Jim Anderson is a graduate of Woodlawn High School and LSUS with a degree in accounting. He is a US Navy Veteran and a retired CPA and business owner.
priscilla@stmarkscathedral.net
Priscilla McLean
Priscilla McLean is a native of Shreveport and graduated from Byrd High School and Centenary College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1971. She was married to Robert McLean for 50 years and they had 3 children – Kenneth, Scott and Sarah. It was those 3 children that pulled her into youth work. She worked with the youth on the Parish and Diocesan level for a number of years and thoroughly enjoyed this ministry. Priscilla recently retired from 20+ years at Willis Knighton Health Systems.
She enjoys playing with her grandchildren, travel (especially to the mountains), Bible study with my Covenant group and Extended EFM and gardening. She is currently enjoying her work here with St Mark’s to schedule facilities, update the calendar with all the events of the Cathedral, manage Realm and keeping the congregation informed through email marketing.
Facilities
mark@stmarkscathedral.net
Mark Deverts
Mark Deverts has been part of the cathedral since 2017. In his current position of church sexton, Mark monitors the energy management system (HVAC) and oversees building and grounds maintenance, among other miscellaneous tasks needed to accommodate the church’s day to day activities.
Before working for the church, Mark had a lengthy career in the HVAC Industry working for his family’s business and then a short 8 years in the RV Repair Industry.
For fun Mark enjoys outdoor activities such as riding ATV’s and saltwater fishing.
Members of The Vestry of St. Mark’s Cathedral
- Lisa Love, Senior Warden
- Dan Koruna, Junior Warden
- Patrick Caraway, Treasurer
- John Reeks, Chancellor
2026
David Drummond
Paul Guidry
Val Irion
Reid Jones
John Turnage
2027
Michael Ameen
Erin Dicharry
Catherine Evans
Kathryn Gaiennie
Stephen Kneip
2028
Lloyd Brown
Matt Coady
Jonathan Davis
Laura Ashley Overdyke
Adam West
2029
Megan Campbell
Ginny Murphy
Clay Nelson
Dee Peterson
Matthew Smitherman