Mark Schmitz

Pastor Mark Schmitz began ministry work in 1974 serving as a part time youth pastor while studying at Baptist Bible College of PA. He and Sandi met at college, he was an athlete and she was a cheerleader. They married in 1975. While she served as an elementary teacher, Mark attended Biblical Theological Seminary 1978 MDiv. He finished his studies with a Doctorate DMin. 1983.

Mark’s ministry experience includes serving 5 years as a camp director at High Point Camp in Geigertown PA. Together, Mark and Sandi enjoyed short term missions in Germany, teaching college and grad school courses, serving as Minister of Edification at High Point Baptist Chapel and coaching soccer and basketball team.

Following 23 years at High Point he served as Senior Pastor at Summit Baptist Bible Church until 2010 when He joined the staff of Harvest Bible Chapel in Hickory. Throughout these years he developed the counseling ministry he serves in today, SoulCareNC Counseling. In 2016 he gave leadership the struggling East Hickory Baptist Church serving as replanter and pastor.

Mark and Sandi will celebrate 50 years of marriage in 2025. They have four grown children and 12 grandchildren. They are excited to see how God will continue to work in the future at Hope Hickory Church.