About Us
“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” – John 13:34
Saint James Episcopal Church is a community rooted in faith, connection, and welcome. We are committed to sharing Christ’s love with one another and the world. Whether you are exploring church for the first time, returning after time away, or looking for a place to belong, we hope to meet you and help you find your place here.
Hospitality is at the heart of who we are. We love to gather around tables—at coffee hour, parish events, and through our partnerships with local food banks and community organizations—because sharing food is one of the ways we share God’s love.
We are known for our love of children and families. From the laughter of little ones to the steady presence of those who have called this church home for generations, Saint James is a place where every age is valued and woven into the life of our parish.
Our life together is also shaped by thoughtful, engaging bible studies, ministry groups, and a commitment to pastoral care that meets people where they are. In times of joy and in times of need, we walk alongside one another.
We invite you to visit us here in the beautiful countryside of Monkton, Maryland – surrounded by rolling hills, agricultural fields, and pastoral landscapes. May this peaceful setting bring you a little bit closer to God and may you come to call this place home.
We hope that everyone who comes through our doors finds not just a church, but a family.
Our Mission
Saint James strives to reflect Jesus Christ by welcoming all, nurturing faith across generations, sharing God’s love through kindness, service, and caring for one another as a family in Christ.
Our Core Beliefs
At Saint James, we’re trying to follow Jesus in real life—together. These are the things that shape who we are and how we live:
God is real and present.
We believe in one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who created us, loves us, and is still at work in the world today.
Jesus shows us who God is.
In Jesus, we see what God is like. Through his life, death, and resurrection, we are offered forgiveness, new life, and a path to follow.
The Bible matters.
Scripture helps us understand who God is and how to live. We read it together, ask questions, and let it shape our lives.
We are formed by common prayer.
Alongside Scripture, the Book of Common Prayer shapes our worship and our life of faith, grounding us in a shared rhythm of prayer, Scripture, and sacrament.
Church is about people, not perfection.
The Church is a community of real people learning to follow Jesus. We gather to worship, grow, and support one another.
You belong here.
Baptism is a sign that we are part of God’s family. Whether you’ve been here for years or are just beginning, there is a place for you.
Communion is at the center.
When we gather at the table, we remember Jesus, receive his presence, and are sent out to live differently in the world.
Faith is something we grow into.
Through worship, prayer, and honest conversations, we keep learning what it means to follow Jesus in our everyday lives.
Love is through both word and action.
We believe loving our neighbor means showing up—serving, feeding, listening, and caring for others in real, practical ways.
Everyone matters to God.
Every person is created in God’s image. We are committed to being a place where people are seen, valued, and welcomed.
To read more about the Episcopal Church click here.
