Ministries

Become a part of the life of St. James’ by participating in one of our ministries. Grow in your connection with other parishioners while helping to serve others and our church. To request more information or volunteer, please click on the Contact Us button above and message the parish office, or call us at (626) 799-9194.

WORSHIP

… is at the center of the life of our church. There is a way for people of all ages to become involved:

Choir: Do you enjoy singing? In scripture we read that “God is enthroned on the praises of God’s people.” Our choir enjoys being together, learning new music and leading the music our worship. Choir rehearsal is held on Wednesday nights.

Choristers: This choral program for young people is modeled after those the great cathedrals in England. Young people are provided with an excellent musical education, participate in occasional services, learn about worship and have fun in the process.

Acolytes: St. James’ has a long history of involving the youth of the church in leadership roles in the service. Young people get a close-up and behind-the-scenes view of our Sunday services. You can join this ministry beginning in 5th grade. Teams are trained to assist with a service once a month. There is an occasional need for adult acolytes to serve as well.

Altar Guild: Do you like to arrange flowers, help create a holy space for worship, enjoy the company of others while taking care of the things of the altar and preparing for the services of the church? The commitment is one Saturday and/or Sunday morning a month. Membership is by invitation of the Rector, but please contact the office to be considered.

Usher Guild: Ushers are often visitors’ first impression of our church. They are first to greet new people coming to St. James’. Would you like to assist by distributing the service leaflets and assisting with details of our services? Join an usher team, meet new people and serve one Sunday a month.

Lay Readers Guild: This group is comprised of Lectors and Lay Eucharistic Ministers. Lectors volunteer to read lessons from the scriptures and lead the prayers of the people during our Sunday morning Eucharists and at special services. Lay Eucharistic Ministers are trained and licensed to administer the chalice during the service of Holy Communion and to bring communion to the sick and homebound. The diocese offers training once a year.

Sunday Hospitality: Join a committee to provide Sunday hospitality in the parish hall after the 10 a.m. service. Individuals may sign up for a single coffee hour or volunteer for continuous service as needed for events.

Prayer Team: Central to the ministry of any church is the call to prayer. A group of parishioners meets Wednesday nights after the 6 o’clock Eucharist to pray for the needs of the parish and for healing for those who attend and request prayer. If you are interested in the ministry of healing prayer, contact the church office.

FELLOWSHIP, EDUCATION and OUTREACH

Children’s Ministry: One of the fastest-growing age groups at St. James’ is under age 5! Creativity and life spill out of the Sunday School rooms at St. James’. Childcare is offered during services as well. If you would like to become part of the teaching team of dedicated men and women or check out what is available for your child, contact the parish office.

Youth Ministry: If hanging out together, meeting new friends and sharing good food sounds right, this is for you. The youth group meets on Sunday nights, from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening begins with a shared meal (often provided by a parent), followed by 30 to 45 minutes of games. The evening concludes with worship, followed by discussion. The focus of our discussions for the first half of 2006 will be on who we truly are meant to be as followers of Jesus Christ. There are two important parts to this discussion: learning to differentiate ourselves from the world around us (pop culture, advertising, school, family, politics, etc.) and learning to recognize and take part in what God is doing in us and in the world around us.

Food Locker: This ministry distributes food to the poor and those in need. Everyone can help by bringing nonperishable food to church on Sunday. There is an ongoing need for individuals to help collect and distribute food.

Continuing Education: A variety of classes is offered on an ongoing basis for all ages. Check the web site and Sunday “Life at St. James’” liturgy insert for current programs, or contact the office.

Bible Study: This ongoing fellowship, which meets every Thursday morning at 7:30 in the Guild Room, is open to all who seek a deeper connection with and understanding of Scripture in the context of an open and lively discussion with others. Led by former pastor Stan Hirtle.

Movie Group: This group gathers once a month with film and post-production editor Peter Summers. Have lunch after church, catch a film and discuss what you’ve seen.

Book Study: Educator and gifted conversationalist William Holmes leads this discussion group, which meets occasionally throughout the year.

SAGES (Seniors): Being retired has its advantages! All are welcome. Join the SAGES for a once-a-month luncheon with a speaker and entertainment. You are welcome to come early to help set up, share cooking skills or stay to help clean up—or suggest program activities!

Family Time Out: Ongoing events range from white elephant bingo to family camping trips. This is for all kinds of families and people who want to be part of a family! Plenty of opportunities for involvement!

Men of St. James’: The group has one goal: to find another reason to get together and socialize! Our outings have ranged from a night out bowling to searching for the best cigar to enjoy over a good card game after more than enough food.