Mark L. Waltz

Mark is a people advocate. He believes people have inherent value and worth, period. For 35 years, his life and work have been about people: retail management, employment services, team training, church leadership, consulting and leadership development. It’s all about people.

Mark is a sought-after trainer and consultant, particularly in the area of guest services and customer care. Churches from England, Canada and across the U.S. have taken their teams and ministry to new levels of hospitality and care through Mark’s practical training. His clear understanding of guests, expertise in team-building and keen eye for excellence call out the best in the people who make up the local church – or any organization.

Mark is the author of three books: First Impressions: Creating Wow Experiences in Your Church, Lasting Impressions: From Visiting to Belonging and How to Wow: 101 Meaningful Ways to Make a First Impression. His resources are used in college classrooms, local churches, other non-profits and businesses. They lay a non-negotiable foundation about people: each individual has infinite value and at the same time brings unique value to their sphere of influence.

Mark is currently a pastor at Granger Community Church where he has served in various leadership roles over the past 17 years, including connections, volunteer strategies, executive leadership; and is still a unifying force for staff and volunteers as he remains the onsite guest services practitioner and relational leader. Today he serves as Executive Pastor of Care Ministries, overseeing the staff responsible for guest experiences and care services.

Ultimately, Mark is passionate about connecting broken people to God’s unconditional love, hope and healing.

Mark has been married to his high school sweetheart, Laura, for over 35 years, and today they are still best friends. Their only child, Liv, married her high school sweetheart, Jacob Alexander, this past December.

Visit Mark’s website for resources, articles and more: BecausePeopleMatter.com