Christmas Eve

Sunday, Dec. 24 at 4 p.m., 7 p.m., and 10 p.m.

When you come to St. James Cathedral for Christmas, expect a loving welcome, no matter who you are or where you come from. Whether you are a regular churchgoer or a first-time visitor, whether you are a committed follower of Christ or you aren't sure what you believe, whether this holiday season fills you with joy or it makes you you feel a little lonely, at St. James Cathedral, you're not just welcome, you belong!

Christmas Service Schedule

Family Eucharist with Children's Pageant at 4 p.m.

Children from the cathedral community and our neighborhood are invited to present an interactive Christmas story during this family-friendly Christmas Eve celebration. Festive carols will be led by the Cathedral Choristers. Children are invited to participate in every aspect of this service, so childcare is not provided.

Lessons & Carols for Christmas Eve at 7 p.m.

We recount the story of the Nativity through words of scripture, beautiful choral music sung by the Cathedral Choir and Choristers, and beloved Christmas Carols sung by the entire congregation. The service will last about an hour and will not include a sermon or Eucharist. 

Solemn Eucharist at 10 p.m.

Bishop Paula Clark preaches at the church’s principal celebration of the joyful feast of Christmas. The Cathedral Choir leads the music of the service, which will be preceded by a half-hour prelude played by our excellent organists. Organ prelude begins at 9:30 p.m.

Christmas Day Eucharist at 10 a.m.

A smaller, quieter celebration of the Nativity with music led by members of the Cathedral Choir. Childcare is not provided.

Plan your visit

Christmas Eve at St. James Cathedral is filled with activity. These services are an opportunity to take a break from seasonal distractions to hear ancient stories of a world made out of love and for the purpose of love!

It is not uncommon for people to either dress casually or formally when visiting the Cathedral. Our priority is that you to feel comfortable. 

Children are always welcome at St. James. There is an open space to the front right of the pews for children to play under your supervision and a changing station for parents of our youngest members under the church in the restrooms.

The cathedral is accessible to people with limited mobility. An access ramp is located at the west end of the building, 65 E. Huron St.

Map & Parking

We are conveniently located 2 blocks from the red line. Exit at Chicago Avenue, then south two blocks to the corner of Wabash and Huron.

We are one block west from the 3, 10, 26, 146, 147, and 151 bus lines on Michigan Avenue. Exit at Superior or Erie if southbound, exit at Huron if northbound.

Reduced-rate parking is available Sundays at ROW Parking Garage, 50 E Ohio Street, for $3 up to 6 hours on Sundays and $15 up to 18 hours Monday through Saturday. Parking is also available at Ohio Ontario Self Park, 33 W Ontario, for $9 up to 18 hours daily. Get a reduced-rate parking voucher from the St. James Commons reception desk. 

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