Our Story

St. James began with thirteen families, a shared hope, and a willingness to build something together.

On March 1, 1959, those families gathered in the parking lot of Westinghouse Electric Corporation to discuss the possibility of forming a new United Methodist church in northeast Raleigh. Many had moved into the area and were looking for a church closer to home—one where they could worship, raise their children in faith, and serve their growing community. Before they had a building, they had a vision: a church shaped by prayer, cooperation, hospitality, and service.

The new congregation first worshiped under the name Asbury Methodist Church, meeting in borrowed spaces while members visited neighbors and invited others to become part of the new church. The name was soon changed to St. James Methodist Church, and the congregation purchased land along what was then New Hope Road. As the City of Raleigh expanded and renamed roads, the church’s address eventually became 3808 St. James Church Road.

In 1960, a simple metal building was moved onto the property and became the congregation’s first church home. It may have been modest, but it was filled with worship, Sunday school, music, fellowship, and the energy of a growing congregation. Members gave generously and served wherever they were needed—from teaching children and singing in the choir to caring for the building and welcoming new neighbors.

As St. James grew, so did its campus. The Chapel was completed in 1962 as the first phase of a larger plan for ministry in the community. In 1970, the Sanctuary and church offices were completed. The Sanctuary was later dedicated in 1982 after the congregation retired the remaining debt—a milestone made possible by years of faithful giving and shared commitment.

The story of St. James has always been about more than buildings. Across the decades, members have responded to needs both near and far through mission trips, disaster relief, food ministries, home repairs, support for children and schools, and partnerships throughout the community. The church has welcomed civic and community groups into its facilities, supported families in times of hardship, and created ministries where people of all ages could learn, serve, make music, build friendships, and grow in faith.

In 1996, Carson Hall was dedicated, providing additional space for fellowship, Christian education, youth ministry, community gatherings, and new forms of worship. Like the buildings that came before it, Carson Hall was created not simply to expand the campus, but to make room for ministry.

Through seasons of growth and change, St. James has remained rooted in the conviction expressed by one of its charter members: the church is sustained by “a spirit of cooperation and dedicated service to the total work of the Methodist Church.” That spirit can be seen throughout our history—in members sharing their gifts, responding to the needs of neighbors, nurturing children and youth, and continually finding new ways to serve.

Today, St. James is an intergenerational and multicultural congregation still shaped by the vision of those first families. We gather in two styles of worship, but we are one church. We honor the faithfulness of those who came before us while listening for where God is leading us next.

Our story is still being written. There is room in it for you.