Worship at St. James is shaped by practices that have nourished Christians for generations. Through Baptism, Holy Communion, and the seasons of the Christian Year, we remember God's story and discover our place within it.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion is one of the central acts of Christian worship and one of the two sacraments celebrated in The United Methodist Church.

At St. James, we practice Open Table, because we believe Christ is the host of the meal. You do not need to be a member of St. James—or of any church—to receive Communion. All who seek the grace of God are welcome at the Lord’s Table. United Methodists understand Holy Communion to be a means of grace—a sacred gift through which God nourishes our faith, strengthens our hope, and draws us closer to Christ and to one another.

We typically celebrate Holy Communion on the first Sunday of each month, as well as during other special services throughout the year. Communion is normally received by coming forward to receive a piece of bread and an individual cup. 

Baptism

Baptism is a joyful celebration of God’s grace and the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith.

In baptism, we remember that God’s love reaches for us before we ever reach for God. Through water and the Holy Spirit, we are welcomed into the family of Christ and called to grow as disciples. At St. James, we celebrate baptisms for people of every age—from infants to adults—and rejoice each time someone publicly affirms God’s work in their life.

If you are interested in baptism for yourself or your child, we would be honored to talk with you.

The Christian Year

Our worship follows the seasons of the Christian Year, helping us walk through the story of Jesus together.

Throughout the year, we celebrate the hope of Advent, the joy of Christmas, the reflection of Lent, the wonder of Holy Week, the triumph of Easter, the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the remembrance of the saints who have gone before us on All Saints Sunday. These seasons remind us that our lives are continually being shaped by God's story of grace, redemption, and new life.

In addition to Sunday worship, we gather throughout the year for special services and celebrations that mark the rhythms of the Christian life and the life of our congregation.