Welcome to Saint James Church
We’re glad you’re here!
Whether you are new to the Episcopal Church, returning to church after some time away, or simply looking for a church home, we welcome you to Saint James.
You don’t have to know the prayers, understand the service, or have everything figured out before you walk through our doors. Come as you are. We are a community of people at all different places in their faith journeys, and there is a place for you here.
New to Saint James?
Here are a few things that may help you feel more comfortable on your first visit.
Children Are Welcome
Wiggles are welcome!
Children are an important part of our church family, and we love having them in worship. If your child makes a little noise, needs to move around, or gets the giggles during the service, that’s okay.
We want children to learn that church is a place where they belong. Parents and caregivers are welcome to sit wherever they feel most comfortable, and there is no expectation that children will sit perfectly still or be completely quiet. Towards the front is easier for you to see and hear.
Come worship with us just as you are—with all the wiggles, questions, and joyful and challenging moments that come with family life.
What Is an Episcopal Church?
Saint James is part of The Episcopal Church, a Christian denomination rooted in the traditions of the early Church and the Anglican tradition.
Our worship centers around Scripture, prayer, Holy Communion, and the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. We value tradition while also seeking to live out our faith in the world around us.
If you are new to The Episcopal Church you may hear some words or see some traditions that are unfamiliar at first. That’s okay! You don’t need to understand everything right away. Our worship is something we learn by experiencing it together. Feel free to seek out our clergy with questions. The clergy are here to assist in worship and the life of faith.
What Should I Expect on Sunday?
Our Sunday worship follows the ancient Church patterns:
- We gather
- We give praises to God
- We hear scripture
- We respond to the scripture with sermon, and ancient Church creed, prayer, and offering ourselves and our treasure.
- We celebrate the Eucharist
- We are sent out to carry the love of God into the world
You will find a Book of Common Prayer and a hymnal available for worship. Directions are also provided throughout the service, so you can simply follow along.
And if you aren’t sure what to do, don’t worry—just watch what others are doing. There is no test!
Do I Have to Be Episcopalian to Worship at Saint James?
Absolutely not.
You are welcome at Saint James whether you are Episcopalian, belong to another Christian tradition, are exploring your faith, or aren’t sure what you believe. All are welcome!
If you would like to receive Holy Communion, you are welcome to come forward. If for any personal or religious reason you prefer not to receive, you may come forward for a blessing or remain seated. Either choice is perfectly fine. If you want information about baptism, please contact the church office.
What Should I Wear?
Whatever makes you comfortable.
Some people dress up for church, while others come in more casual clothing. You will see a variety of styles on Sunday. There is no dress code for worship.
How Do I Get Involved?
There are many ways to become part of the Saint James community.
You can participate in:
- Sunday Worship
- Bible studies
- Outreach and volunteer opportunities
- Children and youth activities
- Music and worship ministries
- Small groups and parish activities
- Special events throughout the year
You don’t have to jump into everything at once. Start by coming to worship, meeting people, and finding what feels meaningful to you.
Stay Connected
Learn what is happening at Saint James Church by receiving our parish communications. “Bell Tower News” is our e-news letter that keeps you informed on everything happening at Saint James Church. The “Weekly Worship” email provides links to our online Sunday Services and Bulletin information. To sign into our Flocknote church system to receive Bell Tower News and Weekly Worship each week click here.
Questions? Just Ask.
If you have questions about worship, becoming a member, baptisms, weddings, children and youth programs, volunteering, or anything else, please reach out. We are happy to help. If you have a pastoral need, please reach out to one of our priests – contact information is below.
You don’t have to know where you fit before you arrive. Come worship, plug in, and discover Saint James for yourself.
Rev. Joseph M. Cochran
Rector
rector@saintjames.org
434-249-3868
Rev. Joanne Fisher
Associate Priest
joanne@saintjames.org
410-310-6054
Church offices:
church@saintjames.org
410-771-4466