Parish Life
BECOMING A MEMBER
Baptism makes you a Christian. If you have never been baptized, or if you have children you would like to have baptized see our page on Baptism (link)
The Episcopal Church defines a member as a baptized person:
1. whose baptism is recorded in the congregation's records (wherever it occurred).
2. who is known to the clergy or leaders in a congregation because they attend worship on a regular basis and are involved in the life of the community.
3. who contributes to the mission and ministries of the congregation in a manner that can be recorded by the treasurer.
Our worship, our programs, our care are all open to any who come into this cathedral church. To become a member of St James and the Episcopal Church is another level of commitment.
Contact the clergy and tell us of your interest.
Fill out a membership form so that we have all the relevant information for our records.
Make a financial contribution to the operations of this congregation by a means that can be recorded.
Most of our people make a pledge to commit to a yearly total gift that will be given in increments though out the year. There are several ways to pledge and contribute, including online options. (See page on Giving).
Get involved in the ministries of St. James, and get to know the people of St. James. (see How to Connect, I gave at Church).
If you have come to us from another Christian tradition, it is appropriate to make your commitment to this new spiritual home in one more way. You can prepare to be confirmed or received by our Bishop at a special service as a way to reaffirm your baptism and make a public affirmation of your Christian life as part of the Episcopal Church under the oversight of the Bishop. (see page on Confirmation/Reception and Inquirers' Class).
First steps:
- Please fill out this simple inquiry form or a visitor card in the pews
- Introduce yourself to one of the clergy
- Keep attending the Sunday services.
- Volunteer for a St. James ministry (see below).
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
The I GAVE AT CHURCH campaign is our volunteer base. St. James needs and welcomes volunteers in every ministry. Read through the ministry options here and find several ministries that interest you, then sign up for a ministry here.
You are also welcome to call one of the clergy or lay leaders and let them know that you are interested.
- iGave form
- Source iGave website
HOW WE GATHER TOGETHER
Social Parties Social parties and receptions are held any time we get together. If you walk any where in the Cathedral and happen to see someone with a bottle of wine or salsa, just join in!
St James Cafe St. James Cafe hosts the Sunday Coffee Hours. Due to the construction project, our moveable "cafe" is now located in the entrance to the Cathedral (the narthex). The cafe is the venue for coffee hours after each service as well as Music in the Neighborhood on Thursdays in the summer.
Young Adult Ministry Young Adult group, organized in 2011, welcomes the growing number of young adults in the congregation. Their first cook out was a great success. Additional entertainment and service projects are planned for the remainder of the year.
After Hours After Hours, meaning after the 11:00 service on the first Sunday of the month is a time when members and visitors gather for lunch at one of the local restaurants. It's a casual time to eat good food and get to know some new friends.
Annual Fundraiser The Annual Fundraiser began in 2010 and now is an annual event to raise funds for St. James ministries. It is held in a cool place, has great food, entertainment and a silent auction that is always sold out. The date for the 2011 fundraiser is October 20th.
Annual Meeting Our Annual Meeting is a time for members to celebrate the vision and direction of the Cathedral. While the business of electing new members to the governing board (the Chapter) and approval of the budget take place, a party follows to celebrate accomplishments and enjoy the company of one another.
