Mark had a varied career as journalist, entrepreneur and corporate management before becoming a missionary in 2002. He graduated in 1973 from the University of Missouri School of Journalism.After graduation, his career included stints with The Associated Press, United Press International and Gannett Newspapers. Switching careers in the 1980s he moved into sales management with Unisys and MCI.
Mark is married to Margaret and has one daughter Audrey, son-in-law Chris and eight grandchildren - Stephen, Hannah, Samuel, Peter, Sarah, Mary, Faith and Julia - who he loves so much..
In 2001, the Noblins joined their first mission trip, serving at a Bible camp for children in an impoverished area of Guatemala. On this trip, they visited a nearby House of Hope complex. Later Mark developed a passion for Africa while visiting a House of Hope home for orphaned, deserted or displaced children in Uganda.
Through his experience with children and also seeing the challenges of the men in Africa, Mark recognized a need for strong families and godly men. Mark's desire to disciple men to honor God in their churches, families, communities and businesses helped lead to the formation of The Rock in 2006. Mark and Margaret spent the year of 2005 in Uganda where Mark launched the men’s discipleship/loan program.
Mark spends his time between Uganda and Dallas, Texas. When in Uganda he stays on campus or in a ministry house next to Uganda Christian University with 8,500 students and do one on one mentoring. Mark facilitates teaching and multiplying disciples so they understand their identity in Christ and can lead the way for believers to be spiritually free. Frequently he is asked to speak to high school students about the impact of their choices and choosing to be free. Mark also mentors and counsels couples with Margaret preparing for marriage with Biblical principles and practical application of these things in marriage.