One of the best ways to feel at home at St. James is to find a smaller community within the larger church family. Whether you’re looking to build friendships, deepen your faith, serve alongside others, or simply share a common interest, there’s a place for you here.
Explore some of the groups that help make St. James a community where people are known, supported, and encouraged as we follow Christ together. Life is better together.
Interested in learning more? We’d love to help you get connected. Contact the church office or speak with one of our group leaders after worship.
United Methodist Men (UMM)
The United Methodist Men gather each month for dinner, fellowship, and service. Along the way, they’ve become well known for one of St. James’ favorite traditions—our famous homemade peanuts! (Yes, they’re made right here at the church.) Choose from Salted, Unsalted, Spicy Cajun, or Dill Pickle.
Beyond the peanuts, the UMM supports the mission of St. James through hands-on projects, including building wheelchair ramps, assisting with home repairs, and responding to practical needs in our community.
United Women in Faith (UWF)
United Women in Faith is a community of women who seek to grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and make a difference in the world. The Circle gathers monthly for fellowship, learning, prayer, and opportunities to support local and global missions that improve the lives of women, children, and youth.
New Hope Strummers
Whether you’ve never picked up a ukulele or you’ve been playing for years, the New Hope Strummers welcome musicians of all experience levels. Gather with friends to learn new songs, enjoy making music together, and have plenty of fun along the way.
Interested in guitar? Group guitar lessons are also offered from time to time.
Sanctuary Choir
The Sanctuary Choir leads music in our Traditional Worship service while sharing friendship, encouragement, and the joy of making music together. New singers are always welcome—no audition required. Whether you’ve sung in choirs for years or are looking to return to music, we'd love to have you join us.
Common Thread Praise Band
The Common Thread Praise Band leads contemporary worship each Sunday through music that invites the congregation into prayer and praise. If you sing or play an instrument and are interested in serving through music, we'd love to talk with you about becoming part of the team.
Lenovo Concessions
Serving together can also be a lot of fun! Volunteers from St. James regularly work concession stands at the Lenovo Center during Carolina Hurricanes games and other special events. It's a great way to build friendships, enjoy the excitement of the event, and help generate income that supports the ministries of St. James.
Play Cafe
Play Café is a welcoming gathering place for caregivers and children (birth through age 5) to connect, play, and build community. Each week, families enjoy free play in our dedicated Play Café space while caregivers have the opportunity to meet, encourage one another, and form new friendships.
Participation is free, but registration is requested. Check the schedule for upcoming dates and details.
Youth Group
Our Youth Group is a welcoming community for middle and high school students to grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and discover what it means to follow Jesus together.
Youth gather weekly for fellowship, Bible study, service projects, mission opportunities, and plenty of fun. They are an active part of the life of St. James and regularly help lead and serve within the congregation.
Capital Squares @ St. James
Each week, St. James is proud to host the Capital Squares Square Dance Club. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or have never tried square dancing before, beginners are always welcome, with introductory classes offered throughout the year.
Several members of St. James have discovered a love of square dancing through Capital Squares, making it a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, stay active, and have fun.
Learn more by visiting the Capital Squares website.