Mark Bender

Mark Bender retired in July 2021, having served as minister of music at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Indianapolis, Indiana, (1974-1991), and at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School in Des Peres, Missouri (1991-2021). He served on the Commission on Worship (LCMS) and as a member of the Liturgy Committee of the Lutheran Hymnal Project, producing Lutheran Service Book. Mark served as an elected member of the board of directors of Concordia Publishing House (2010-2023). A native of St. Louis, Missouri, he earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education—director of parish music (1974) and a master’s degree in church music (1976) from Concordia University Chicago. He was presented the honorary Christus Vivit award (2005) from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and the honorary doctor of letters degree (2011) from Concordia University Chicago. Mark is a published composer of choral, organ, and piano music, and a member of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians. In retirement he serves as a substitute church organist, and as a member of the board of directors of the American Kantorei (St. Louis). Mark and his wife, Ann, live in Ballwin, Missouri.