WELCOME

to

ST. JAMES

EPISCOPAL CHURCH

 

A Guide to St. James

 

Nourished by Word and Sacrament, we are sent out to do the work God has given us to do, to love and serve God as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord.

St. James Mission

 

 

Welcome

Who We Are

General Contact Information

Service Schedule

Our Rector

Our Assistant to the Rector for Adult Ministries

Our Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries

Our Priest Associate

Membership

Baptism

Weddings

Our Vision, Mission and Goals

Worship Ministries

Music

Acolytes

Ushers & Greeters

Lay Eucharistic Ministers and Lay Readers

Childrens Chapel

Altar Guild

Outreach Ministries

Outreach Committee

St. James Preschool

Adult Mission Trips

St. Gabriels Episcopal Church Plant

Pastoral Care Ministries

Pastoral Associates

Healing Team

Intercessory Prayer Team

Discipleship Ministries

Sunday School

Youth Groups

Kids With Purpose

Education for Ministry (EfM)

Annual Giving Campaign

Fellowship Events

Newcomer Committee

Sunday Coffee Hour Hosts

Foyer Groups

20s/30s Group

Library

Nursery

Adult Christian Formation

Administration Ministries

Office Staff

Church Street Property Committee

Parish Historian

Property Committee

Finance Committee

King Street Oversight Committee

Vestry

 

Welcome!

 

St. James Episcopal Church is a dynamic and vibrant community that has experienced great growth in the last few years and continues to welcome new people each week. We invite you to explore St. James and to join us as "faithful witnesses" to the work of Christ in our lives and in the lives of others.

 

Getting started always begins with that first step. This brochure describes some examples of all our parish has to offer and how you can participate.

 

Who we are.

 

We are...St. James Episcopal Church,

A community of 1,430 baptized members.

 

We belong...to the Diocese of Virginia,

A community of 90,000 baptized members and 450 clergy in 38 counties of central, northern and northwestern Virginia, serving the world through 194 congregations, six schools, two diocesan retreat centers, and six diocesan homes, and home to the largest Anglican seminary in the worldVirginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria.

 

Which belongs to...The Episcopal Church, USA,

A community of 2.5 million members in 113 dioceses in the Americas and abroad. The Episcopal Church, USA was organized in 1789.

 

Which belongs to...the Anglican Communion,

A global community of 73 million Anglicans in 38 member provinces.

 

General Contact Information

 

14 Cornwall Street NW,Leesburg, Virginia 20176

Phone: 703-777-1124

Fax: 703-777-1129

email: info@stjamesleesburg.org

www.stjamesleesburg.org

 

For pastoral emergencies, call the Church Office and select option 3 to leave a message to be immediately forwarded to the clergy on call.

 

 

 

Service Schedule

 

No matter who you are, or where you are in your spiritual journey, you are welcome at St. James.

 

Please know that all baptized persons regardless of age or denomination are welcomed and encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

 

We conduct a Wednesday Noon Holy Eucharist service (12:00-12:30), Morning Prayer on Fridays at 8:30 a.m., and three services each Sunday, each with its own identity:

 

7:45 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite I

 

Our early morning service uses the more traditional language of our Book of Common Prayer and usually does not have music.

 

9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II

 

While children are welcome at all services, this service is particularly suited to children and their parents. It offers a lively service incorporating blended music of traditional hymns with more contemporary music and songs, as well as Childrens Chapel during the adult sermon, so that children may worship with age-appropriate messages, songs, and prayers.

 

11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite I or II

With Childrens Chapel and Healing Service

 

A traditional liturgy is enhanced with classical hymns and music led by an adult parish choir and musicians from the Shenandoah University Music program. The service varies between Rite I and Rite II, depending on season, and also offers Childrens Chapel during the adult sermon, as well as prayers for healing during Holy Eucharist.

 

Professionally-staffed child care is available at all services. Christian Education for all ages (pre-K, 1-5th grade Sunday School, middle school forum, high school forum, and two adult forums) takes place each Sunday from 10:10 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the School Board Administrative Building, next door at the corner of Wirt and North Streets, NW. Plenty of parking is also available at the School Board Administration Building.

 

Our Rector

The Reverend John. R. Ohmer

 

The Rev. John Ohmer is in his twelfth year of ordained ministry, having been called to St. James as Rector in February of 1999. He graduated from Wabash College, earning an A.B. in Philosophy (minor in English) in 1984. He moved to Capitol Hill in 1985 where he worked for a United States Senator for four years and one year as a lobbyist on immigration issues for an affiliate of the American Bar Association, before moving back to his home state of Indiana to work as a press secretary and speech writer for the Indiana Secretary of State while going through the exploration process for ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church.

 

He entered Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia, and was awarded a Masters of Divinity degree in 1993. Upon graduation from seminary, John served for 4 years as the Assistant to the Rector at St. Marys Episcopal Church in Arlington, Virginia. He has served on the Board of Directors of Samaritan Ministry for the Homeless in Washington D.C., on the Diocesan Commission on Ministry, and most recently was appointed by the Bishop of Virginia to serve as an issues writer for the Dioceses publication Center Aisle, a publication dedicated to balanced coverage of controversial issues facing the church.

 

He and his wife Mary have three children: Graham, William, and Elizabeth. John is a runner who has completed five marathons, and still goes back home again to Indiana nearly every year to complete the Indianapolis half marathon.

 

Father Johns email is john@stjamesleesburg.org

 

Our Assistant to the Rector For Adult Ministires

The Reverend Kate Bryant

 

The Rev. Kate Bryant is the newest member of the St. James staff, having received her Master of Divinity degree from Yale Divinity School in May 2006 where she also received her Diploma in Anglican Studies from Berkeley Divinity School at Yale. Kate was recognized for her outstanding contributions to worship life at Berkeley with the St. Lukes Award. She also served on the Berkeley Board of Trustees, elected as Student Representative for her class. Kate is a Priest Associate of the Society of St. Margaret, an Episcopal religious community of women.

 

Kate did her undergraduate work at The Johns Hopkins University where her concentration was Humanistic Area Studies. After graduating, she studied Slavic Linguistics at New York University, from which she received her Master of Arts degree. Kate then embarked upon a twenty-year business career in international and corporate banking (including two years in So Paulo, Brazil), advertising and marketing, and corporate communications. She speaks reads, and writes Portuguese, French and Russian and, to a limited extent, Spanish.

 

After she chose to leave the corporate sector and before she entered seminary, Kate served as a hospital chaplain in the emergency room and burn unit at a regional trauma center in Westchester County, New York. She also served as a homework coach and day camp counselor to children aged 6 to 12 at Iglesia Memorial de San Andres, an Episcopal mission church in the Diocese of New York.

 

A cradle Episcopalian, Kate is a native of Washington, DC. Both of her brothers Jim and Mac live in Washingtons Maryland suburbs.

 

Kate enjoys long bicycle rides, well-written films, and the music of Brazil.

 

Rev. Kates email is kate@stjamesleesburg.org.

 

 

 

Our Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries

Mary Fisher Davila

 

The Rev. Mary Davila is in her second year of serving at St. James, having completed her Master of Divinity in May 2005. Mary is a graduate of the Virginia Theological Seminary, and did her undergraduate work at the University of Richmond, majoring in English and Religion. After graduating from college in 1998, Mary began working at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Richmond. She served as the Director of Childrens Ministries for three years and as a youth group leader for seven. In addition, she was active member of the young adult group at St. Stephens.

 

Mary is married to Chris Davila, an elementary school teacher and tennis coach. They are the parents of two dogs and two cats. Mary is an avid horsewoman, breeding and showing Morgan horses nationally. Her horses live in North Carolina, Kansas City, and San Diego, and she meets them for various shows around the country.

 

Mary is also an ardent UNC basketball fan and enjoys playing tennis and running.

 

Pastor Marys email address is mary@stjamesleesburg.org.

 

Our Priest Associate

The Reverend Donald Goodness

 

The Rev. Donald R. Goodness was born in Rochester, New York, in 1932. He attended public school there and then Union Springs Academy, a Seventh-day Adventist prep school, from which he graduated. He attended a Seventh-day Adventist College in Massachusetts where he also received his ministerial training. In 1950, he was married to Lorraine Reynolds of Hartford, Connecticut, a fellow college student.

 

Fr. Goodness served in the Seventh-day Adventist ministry during the years 19531958, with parishes in Hartford, CT, Worcester, Springfield and Lynn, MA. In the year 1958, he left the Adventist ministry. Bishop Anson Phelps Stokes Jr. confirmed the Goodnesses in Boston in 1959. He then attended The Episcopal Theological School, Cambridge, 1959-1962.

 

After graduating Seminary in 1962, he became Curate at Christ Church, Fitchburg, MA, the largest parish in the Diocese of Western Massachusetts. In 1965, his rector retired, and he was elected by the Parish and approved by the Bishop to be the next Rector. The Goodnesses lived there from 1962-1972. Christ Church was then a parish of over 1,200 members, with over 400 children in church school, basketball teams, EYC groups, adult service & social organizations, community involvement in many drug and rehabilitation programs, and it served as a leader on multiple levels in an area that had a population of 100,000. There were three other Episcopal parishes in the area, two of which had originally been missions of Christ Church.

 

In 1972, Fr. Goodness became rector of New York Citys historic Church of the Ascension at 5th Avenue and 10th Street. He spent 25 years serving Ascension and during those years the parish was noted for its exquisite liturgy, preaching, choir, and teaching ministry; for its leadership in the community in establishing a Food Pantry and a Homeless Shelter; for importing boat people from Vietnam and helping them establish a new life in the U.S.; for its chaplaincy to New York University; for its ministry of welcome to the gay community that was a large portion of Ascensions Greenwich Village population. The Goodnesses retired in 1997 and moved to Potomac Falls, VA, to be near their daughter, Kathleen, and her two children.

 

About St. James Episcopal Church

 

St. James Episcopal Church and Shelburne Parish trace their history in Loudoun County back to the 1700s. The first church in Loudoun County, called the Chapel of Ease for the comfort of the people above the Goose Creek, was built in 1733. Shelburne Parish was created out of the western portion of the Parish of Cameron in 1770. Before the establishment of Shelburne Parish, the Chapel of Ease was served by visiting ministers. Its first rector was the Rev. Dr. David Griffith, a distinguished churchman, who served from 1771 to 1776. A leader in the early church in Virginia, he was, in 1786, the first man elected bishop in America. Unfortunately he died before funds were found to send him to England for his consecration.

 

In 1895, the cornerstone was laid for the present building. The first service was held in 1897, and it was consecrated in 1905. The building was damaged extensively by a fire in 1929. Fortunately, because of the thick stone walls, the basic structure withstood the flames and the nave was restored to its present form.

 

In the following years, St. James has been expanded several times. The addition of the Parish Hall occurred in 1931, and was extended in the 1950s. In 1972, the house beside the church was remodeled and connected to the church by the construction of a stone and glass arcade. It is here that we find the church offices, the parlor, the Preschool office and some of the Preschool classrooms. In 2005, St James acquired properties along King Street for future generation needs.

 

While St. James is a church with a rich history, we are a church of the present, active in ministry in our parish and community. We gather weekly to share in the worship of God, hearing and receiving the word of God through preaching and sacraments. Through various educational opportunities we strive for a deeper understanding of Christ, ourselves and others. Through our various ministries, we seek to make the presence of Jesus Christ known to those in our community.

 

We welcome you to our service today and to our community of faith. Please know that this church extends an invitation to you for on-going fellowship and worship. If you would like to learn more about our activities, please identify yourself to the clergy or one of our greeters.

 

Please know that in the Episcopal Church, ALL baptized Christians, regardless of age or denominational affiliation, are invited and most warmly welcomed to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

 

St. James Episcopal Church

14 Cornwall Street NW, Leesburg, VA 20176

(703)777-1124 info@stjamesleesburg.org

www.stjamesleesburg.org

 

 

Membership

 

We would love for you to be part of our community of faith. If you are currently considering membership, you may begin by contacting Kay Gregg, Registrar at (703) 777-1124 ext. 105.

 

We encourage each person new to the congregation to take our membership class. This class prepares one for membership in the Episcopal church. The current class schedule is listed in the brochure titled The Episcopal Church Welcomes You, Joining the Church: Membership.

 

Please INTRODUCE YOURSELF to the person next to you or to one of our greeters or clergywell point you in the right direction.

 

 

Baptism

 

The sacrament of Holy Baptism is the first formal step in each persons life as a church member and follower of Christ. Whether one is being baptized as an adult or presenting an infant or child to be baptized, it is important to understand the fundamentals of the Christian Faith.

 

If you are currently considering baptism, you may begin by contacting Kris Kennedy, Administrative Assistant, at (703) 777-1124 ext. 100. Please also be sure to pick up our The Episcopal Church Welcomes You, Joining the Church: Baptism brochure which details the steps to follow when preparing for Holy Baptism:

          Baptism Preparation Class

          Baptism Rehearsal

          Banner Making Sessions

 

 

Weddings

 

Because St. James has been blessed with a beautiful physical church building that is located in the heart of historic Leesburg, our parish office receives about five to ten phone calls each week about the availability of the church building to hold a wedding. However, the people of St. James believe that marriage is a Sacrament which must be entered into, and lived out, within a community of faith.

 

Therefore, while questions about the availability of the church building are important, they are rightly asked only after other questions have been asked and answered. For example:

 

          Why Christian marriage?

 

          Why this particular community of faith?

 

          What is my commitment to God and the church?

 

Couples interested in being married at St. James should begin by reading our wedding brochure titled: The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage. This is an introduction to the Sacrament of Christian Marriage as it is celebrated in the life of St. James Episcopal Church. It is also intended to answer some of the more frequently asked questions about holding weddings here.

 

Once you have read the brochure, give Kay Gregg, Wedding Coordinator, a call at (703)777-1124 ext. 105.

 

 

General Contact Information

 

14 Cornwall Street NW, Leesburg, Virginia 20176-2801

Phone: 703-777-1124

Fax: 703-777-1129

email: info@stjamesleesburg.org

www.stjamesleesburg.org

 

For pastoral emergencies, dial (703)263-3019 for the on-call clergy pager.

 

Our Vision, Mission and Goals

 

We believe God is calling St. James to live out this mission:

Nourished by Word and Sacrament, we are sent out to do the work God has given us to do, to love and serve God as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord.

Properly prepared and motivated, the Episcopal Church in general, and St. James in particular, is uniquely poised to accomplish this mission. In 2005, we surveyed the St. James congregation about our existing strengths and areas for improvement. We then considered where God is calling us in the future and, in January 2006, we identified the goals and objectives that will move us to the future that we believe God envisions for us. In Our Vision for the Future, issued in January 2006, we identified three things which we believe God is calling us to do:

1) inspire, equip, and engage all parishioners as active disciples of Christ;

2) increase parishioners participation in intergenerational, hands-on service opportunities by reaching out to others in a common goal in Christs name;

3) undertake a mission-driven renovation and expansion of our facilities.

We are accomplishing the inspire, equip, and engage goal through our worship, discipleship, and pastoral care ministries, and by making this goal a major responsibility of the Rev. Kate Bryant working alongside Mary Pellicano and the Adult Christian Formation Committee.

We are accomplishing the reach out to others in a common goal through our outreach ministries. We have gone out into the community to study the major needs of the poor and/or marginalized in Leesburg and Loudoun County. We have interviewed those on the front lines of poverty and need, and asked them What needs exist? Who is meeting those needs? What gaps exist? Through additional study and prayer, we are asking the Holy Spirits guidance in answering this question: What are the unmet needs that we should we focus our energies on for the near-term future? Our response to that question is our common goal in Christs name.

We have hired cox, graae + spack, a Washington, DC-based architectural firm who is helping us to decide how we can best renovate and expand our facilities to accomplish that common goal while at the same time addressing our own internal needs.

The remainder of this booklet lists a brief description of each of the ministries St. James has in order to help us accomplish our goals.

 

 

Worship Ministries

 

Music

 

Ministry Head

Adult Choir: Dr. Steven Cooksey

Corner Chorale: Dr. Stephan Knobloch

Childrens Choir: Dr. Pat Avery

 

Who we are

 

Adult Choir: The Adult Choir serves as worship leaders for the 11:15 worship service, which is a traditional Episcopal service. They rehearse on Sunday mornings from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m., and on Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. In addition to regular worship services, the Adult Choir sings at special services throughout the year and with other choirs in the area for ecumenical outreach.

 

Corner Chorale: The Corner Chorale serves as worship leaders for the 9:00 worship service. They rehearse on Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., and on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. They sing a variety of music for this blended worship service. Several times during the year, they join their voices with the Adult and Childrens Choirs for special seasonal music.

 

Childrens Choir: The Childrens Choir serves as worship leaders for the 9:00 worship service during the months of September through May. Children in grades kindergarten through seven are invited to be a part of this group. The children learn about Episcopal liturgy and the church seasons as they learn to sing and lead in worship. Grades K-3 rehearse from 5:30-6:10 p.m., and grades 4-7 rehearse from 6:15-6:55 p.m. each Wednesday.

 

How you can be involved...

       Do you play an instrument?

       Do you sing?

       Are you interested in working with children?

 

There are many opportunities for you to share you talent within our worship services. Feel free to talk to Dr. Cooksey or Dr. Avery if you are willing to share your talent in some way here at St. James!

 

Acolytes

 

Ministry Head

Dottie Brannock

 

Who we are

Acolytes have a long history with the worship ministry beginning around 250 A.D. The word acolyte means follower or one who helps. When acolytes first helped with the liturgy, they carried candles in processions, lighted candles on the altar and assisted with the Holy Eucharist. Todays acolytes play the same role with very few differences.

 

What we do

Acolytes at St. James are Crucifers that carry the cross, or Torch Bearers that carry the candles in a procession. They also help assist in setting the table for Holy Eucharist, carry extra sacraments to the floor station, open and close the gate at the altar and help with other tasks to keep the service moving that are not noticed by everyone in the Sanctuary.

 

How you can be involved...

We welcome children as young as 10 and up to high school seniors, most start as a Junior Acolyte processing the Childrens Chapel at the 9:00 service. Starting at middle school they move up to Torch Bearer for the 9:00 and 11:15 services typically moving up to Crucifer around the 9th grade until graduated from High School. Most Acolytes will participate in one service a month along with special services at Christmas and Easter.

 

Ushers and Greeters

 

Ministry Head

Tom Smith

 

Who we are

We are a group of about 120 people whose mission is to warmly welcome and assist both visitors and parishioners while providing quiet, consistent support to the seamless flow of each service.

 

What we do

Responsibilities include greeting at every service, helping latecomers find a place to sit, handing out service bulletins, receiving and presenting the offertory, assisting in communion, tidying the sanctuary before and after each service, and helping with other details during each service.

 

How you can be involved...

Ushers and greeters follow a schedule which is published quarterly. All ushers also volunteer to substitute for those who are unable to serve on their assigned Sundays. To become an usher or greeter, all you need is the desire to serve in this fashion. New volunteers may call the ministry head to express their desire to serve.

 

 

Lay Eucharistic Ministers and Lay Readers

 

Ministry Head

Jeff Brannock & Ron Kunz

 

Who we are

During the year 2006, 44 devoted members have answered their personal call to serve the Lord as Lay Readers and/or Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs) at the various services. The Liturgical Ministries are especially fulfilling and humbling because they provide the opportunity to directly participate in the celebration of the Eucharist.

 

What we do

Lay Reader Through the Lay Reader, Gods living Word continues to be proclaimed to His people: to the young and old, the troubled, the hopeless, the happy, the content, to those in need of challenge, and to those in need of comfort.

 

Lay Eucharistic Minister (LEM) The Lay Eucharistic Minister performs two specific functions:

         Administers the elements (the consecrated bread and wine) at any celebration of the Holy Eucharist in the absence of a sufficient number of Priests or Deacons assisting the celebrant.

         Directly following a celebration of the Holy Eucharist and accompanied by a Pastoral Associate, takes the consecrated Sacrament to members of the congregation who, by reason of illness or infirmity, were unable to be present.

 

How you can be involved...

Qualifications: No special prior experience is required, only faith and interest in these exciting ministries. Lay Readers and Lay Eucharistic Ministers must be persons of wisdom in the faith and of good repute who have received the respect of the local congregation and also demonstrate spiritual maturity. In addition, Lay Eucharistic Ministers must be adult (defined as age 16 years or older) members of St. James Church.

 

Training and Orientation: Training sessions coordinated with the clergy are informal and held twice a year. The team of Lay Readers and Lay Eucharistic Ministers provide backup to one another and are available to help. Following training, Lay Readers and Lay Eucharistic Ministers are licensed to serve with the Diocese of Virginia.

 

Scheduling: Once trained, Lay Readers and Lay Eucharistic Ministers are scheduled once or twice a month at the service time of their choice (7:45, 9:00, or 11:15 a.m.) to read the Word or to assist in serving the elements. The schedule is published in quarterly schedules. Schedule changes are flexible, and are coordinated between individual readers and LEMs.

 

If interested, call or e-mail Jeff Brannock or Ron Kunz.

 

 

Childrens Chapel

 

Ministry Head

Julie Garey & Bridget Penberthy, 9:00 service

The Rev. Mary Davila, Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries, 11:15 service

 

Who we are

The Childrens Chapel Ministry includes clergy, staff and lay members of the church. Our team facilitates an age-appropriate, interactive learning environment of the Gospel for the children of St. James during the adult sermon time each Sunday (year round) for the 9:00 and 11:15 services.

 

What we do

We serve the children (age 3 through 5th grade) at St. James by teaching the love of God through lessons from the Gospels. We talk with, share with and nurture the children as they learn, ask questions, and explore how God reflects in their lives.

 

How you can be involved...

If you are a parent, being a Childrens Chapel leader on a rotating basis is a wonderful way for your child to see you living Gods word. It also provides an opportunity to share in the learning of the Gospel with your child, enriching the life of your family. Anyone who would like to learn more about the ministry or become involved in nurturing the children at St. James is encouraged to contact one of the ministry heads.

 

 

Altar Guild

 

Ministry Head

Kathleen White, Director

 

Who we are

The Altar Guild is approximately 25 dedicated women, divided into four teams. Each team is responsible for one week of each month.

 

What we do

With loving care and devotion a team meets each Saturday morning to prepare the church for Sunday worship. We undertake the care of the altar, arrange flowers, and provide care for linens, vestments, sacred vessels, the sanctuary, chancel, sacristy and all other things or places entrusted to our care. The Guild exists to assist the clergy in preparing for all services in the church, including weddings and funerals.

 

How you can be involved

Contact the Altar Guild Director.

 

 

Outreach Ministries

 

Outreach Committee

 

Ministry Head

Fr. John Ohmer, Rector

 

Who we are...

The Outreach Committee is a small steering committee who is passionate about reaching out to people outside the church to improve their lives and show them Gods love.

 

What we do

The Outreach Committee supports every member of the congregation as they are sent out to do the work God has given them to do, proactively reaches out in service, and extends Christs love to the wider community, the nation and the world. Committee members fund outreach efforts and coordinate events during which parishioners and can participate in reaching out to others through the work of two teams: the Outreach Funding Team and the Hands-On Outreach Team.

 

The Funding Team researches and designates funds from the outreach budget and designated offerings. Designated offerings include the entirety of the Easter and Christmas offerings and other specialized offerings. St. James donates 20-25% of all income outside the church every year. Local, national and international efforts are given equal attention, with preference given to those efforts headed by parishioners. Ideas and requests for funding are always welcome!

 

This hands-on committee coordinates parish-wide Outreach in Action opportunities. These events have included working at food distribution centers, sponsoring children of inmates, collecting back-to-school items for the needy, and Christmas in April projects. Youth and Adult Mission have their own committees, though coordination with the Outreach Committee takes place when necessary. Some of the annual events coordinated by the Hands-on Committee include:

 

             Efforts to benefit Shrine Mont including the Bishops Work Weekend (Mike Nunnally)

             Holiday Coalition Volunteers (Kimberly Haeringer)

             Alternative Gift Market at Christmas (Ann Reimers)

             Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes (Susie Harding)

 

How you can be involved...

Contact the committee chair or any committee member to discuss your ideas for outreach and how we can support you in making them happen. Funding requests and ideas are always welcome. Contact the Outreach Committee contact person indicated above to find out more about one of our ongoing volunteer projects. We share details about these activities in the announcements, the Loaves & Fishes, and on the Outreach Bulletin Board (located in the Narthex). Join the Outreach Committee and help steer St. James outreach efforts.

 

St. James Preschool

 

Ministry Head

Elaine Thiel and Janet Stayrook, Joint Preschool Directors

Matt Costello, Chairman, Preschool Board of Directors

 

Who we are...

The St. James Preschool is a ministry of St. James Episcopal Church now entering our 36th year. This year we open our doors to 216 students, ages 2 1/2 to 5. Respecting the God-given worth of all children, the program has been designed to enable each unique child to be involved in a creative learning experience in a Christian atmosphere of love and acceptance.

 

What we do

The teachers and staff of St. James Preschool provide opportunities to the 2 1/2-5 year olds to develop emotionally, socially, physically, and spiritually in a group setting outside their home. We serve the children of parishioners as well as community members. We offer a weekly chapel service under the guidance and teachings of the church clergy. Music is also provided in an instructional format once a week.

 

How you can be involved...

As a parent of a preschooler, you can be involved in many ways. Each teacher will ask for help in different ways and volunteering is always welcomed! It may be on a weekly or monthly basis but we always want the support. As a member of the church, you too can help us out. Perhaps you have a talent to share or time to donate to helping us take care of our many needs. Stay tuned to the bulletins throughout the year for more information or call us with your ideas at (703)777-8439.

 

Adult Mission Trips

 

Ministry Head

Ken Getty

 

Who we are...

A merry band of parishioners who travel to Welch, West Virginia, in late July to help out local impoverished residents with various remodeling and educational projects. Some contribute a whole week to the mission, some just a few days as their schedule permits.

 

What we do

We offer our services in a variety of ways. In previous years, we worked mostly on hammer & nail types of activities. However, educational assistance will become more important since the residents have been largely relocated and need help with every day living types of skills.

 

How you can be involved

Contact the ministry head if you would like to be involved.

 

St. Gabriels Episcopal church

 

Ministry Head

The Rev. Jeune Cunningham pastor@saintgabriels.net

www.saintgabriels.net Email: info@saintgabriels.net

Phone: (703)779-3616 Fax: (703)777-1129

Meeting at: Belmont Ridge Middle School, Lansdowne

Mailing address: 14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg, VA 20176

 

Who we are...

St. Gabriels is the daughter church of St. James, launched in September 2002, to reach the growing Leesburg and Ashburn communities. We are actively living out our mission to Encounter God, Build Relationships, and Make a Difference in the World. Our vicar, The Rev. Jeune Cunningham, served with Fr. John Ohmer as the Assistant to the Rector at St. James from 2000 - 2002. St. Gabriels worships in a present-tense traditional style, celebrating the richness of Episcopal tradition in Word and Sacrament, while incorporating a variety of excellent music, relevant messages, occasional dramas, and other artistic elements. We are currently planning and practicing for a contemporary Saturday night service.

 

What we do

We do church! We worship each week at 10:00 a.m. at Belmont Ridge Middle School, 19045 Upper Belmont Place (north on Belmont Ridge Rd) in Lansdowne. Christian education for all ages follows the service. Through the generous gift of the Harris family, St. Gabriels now has land and envisions having our first building in the near future. We have developed a spiritual support group for parents of special needs children (autism spectrum disorder, bi-polar, ADHD, etc.) We live out our mission outside of Sunday morning with small groups, fun fellowship opportunities, youth events, and outreach projects, such as the Alternative Gift Fair and mission trips.

 

How you can be involved

As a young church, its easy to get to know people at St. Gabriels and to find a way to use your unique set of spiritual gifts, passions, abilities and experience to help us further our mission to reach out to the community and grow our church. We thank St. James, not only for prayers and support, but for the local missionaries it has raised up and sent to us to grow this young community. Come try St. Gabriels for any service or event. We appreciate the encouragement and support. If, after you come, you feel called to use your gifts to help St. Gabriels grow, contact Pastor Jeune at the St. Gabriels church office at (703)779-3616 for more information.

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

 

Pastoral Associates

 

Ministry Head

Judy Perso

 

Who we are

Pastoral care-giving is the way we minister to each other within a church context. Here at St. James, a lay group of caregivers has been operating for over 20 years. We meet on the third Monday of each month to organize our activities, enhance our efforts with education, and address parish needs.

 

What we do

We visit the homebound to provide fellowship, sometimes taking Sunday communion. We host receptions following funeral services. We organize and host social gatherings aimed primarily at our older parishioners. We take meals to homes, and make hospital visits when needed. We also have a ministry of providing a support group for grieving parishioners. But our most important function is to listen, listen, listen, when a person needs an ear.

 

How you can be involved...

If youre interested in learning more about becoming a Pastoral Associate, please call Judy Perso to discuss the possibilities.

 

 

Healing Team

 

Ministry Head

Veronica Jones

 

Who we are

We serve as a prayer ministry that offers everyone who comes to the Healing Rail a special time of prayer after the Eucharist. The Healing Team consists of a group of people who feel particularly called to pray for others.

 

What we do

Prayers, the laying on of hands, and anointing with oil are offered every Sunday at the 11:15 a.m. service, on the first and third Sunday at the 9:00 a.m. service and on the second Sunday at the 7:45 a.m. service. The healing ministry has two teams of lay people to lay hands upon, pray for, and anoint with Holy Oil those who kneel at the Healing Rail after receiving the Holy Eucharist. Anyone who wants to ask for personal prayer or prayer for another comes to the Rail. Prayer, the laying on of hands and anointing with oil are historic practices, and are grounded in the traditions of our church.

 

How you can be involved...

If you are interested in learning more, please contact the ministry head.

 

Intercessory Prayer Team

 

Ministry Head

Mary Pitz

 

Who we are

We are a group of people committed to pray daily for those in need. We receive requests for prayer through the Church Office or directly.

 

What we do

We pray both as a group when we meet and individually everyday for the needs of those we are asked to pray for. When a request is received by one member, they will inform all the other members to make sure that each team member has the same information on their list.

 

How you can be involved

We will begin to meet again starting in September, usually on the first Tuesday of the month. Please contact the ministry head if you would like to become part of our team or have a prayer request.

 

 

Discipleship Ministries

 

Sunday School

 

Ministry Head...

The Rev. Mary Davila, Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries

 

Who we are

Volunteers from the entire congregation, parents, older siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, or people who just like to work with children, who have decided to donate a portion of their time, talent and love to the children and youth of the parish as Sunday school teachers.

 

What we do

Sunday School is staffed completely with volunteer teachers from the congregation. Our volunteers teach Sunday school classes, help as aides to the teachers, coordinate snack donations for each class.

 

How you can be involved...

The Sunday school runs from September through June. Most teaching positions are filled by September, but we can always use substitute teachers and aides during the year.

 

 

Youth Groups

 

Ministry Head...

The Rev. Mary Davila, Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries

 

Who we are

The Holy Spirit had been building an exciting and powerful Youth Program at St. James. The group consists of youth leaders, volunteers, and students under the direction of the Assistant to the Rector for Children & Youth Ministries with a vision of guiding youth to an everyday life with Jesus Christ. The Middle School Youth Group consists of students from grades 6-8; the Senior High Youth Group consists of grades 9-12.

 

What we do

The Youth Group meets every scheduled Sunday, normally at St. James. The times for Youth Group are: Middle School (6-8 grade) 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. & Senior High (9-12 grade) 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Our goal is to reflect on what it means to live a Christian lifehow our relationship with Christ shapes our decisions, friendships, and encounters at school and at home. Youth Group is not only formational, but FUN! We learn more about God and each other through:

* Games * Community-Building * Discipleship * Service * Outreach * Discussions * Mission Trips *

 

How you can be involved...

The Rev. Mary Davila, the Youth Pastor at St. James, has already prepared the Youth Program in advance for the upcoming year. However, there is always a need for volunteers to help. We need help in the following areas:

 

Leaders: Ever wanted to work with youth? Here is a chance just to have fun and make a difference.

Drivers: Every month or two we need assistance in driving to various outings.

Music: If you play an instrument, we would love to talk to you about music during Youth Group.

Chaperones: Assist youth leaders on weekend trips, going to concerts, or helping with overnight activities.

 

 

KIDS WITH PURPOSE

 

Ministry Heads...

Corrine Aycock

Terry Sue Bowman

Deanna Feddersen

Kate Parse

 

Who we are

Kids With Purpose (KWP) is a fairly new ministry at St. James that allows children to serve actively in outreach. The program is designed for children to learn about and share Gods love while actively serving real needs in Loudoun County.

 

Most weeks are filled with age appropriate field trips and/or class speakers. Some outreach activities are performed at the church. Some groups that KWP helped last year include Interfaith Relief, Loudoun Literacy, Madison House, Good Shepherd Alliance, Ida Lee, Loudoun Free Clinic, Loudoun Rehabilitation Center, and the local Fire & Rescue Squad.

 

What we do

Children from age four (by Sept. 30) through fifth grade are invited to attend. Classes are divided into seven age groups Pre-K fifth grade. Class sizes are limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.

 

KWP will meet Wednesdays from 4:00 5:30 beginning Sept. 26 Dec. 12. (We will not meet on Oct. 31 or Nov. 21.) A second session will be offered in January 2008.

 

Registration: Registration closed to everyone on September 19, 2007.

 

Fee: There is a $35 fee per child (t-shirts are and additional $5) for the first 10-week session. Financial assistance is available to anyone concerned about costs. Please contact Pastor Mary Davila at 703-777-1124 for more details.

 

How you can be involved...

Volunteers: This program is entirely run by volunteers. We have a variety of small, medium, and extra-fun roles available (including teaching) so please contact either Kate Parse or Deanna Feddersen. Nursery care is available to all volunteers.

 

Questions about KWP: If youre interested in KWP but would like more info before enrolling, then please contact either Terry Sue Bowman or Corinne Aycock.

 

Education for Ministry (EfM)

 

Ministry Head

Alecia Moroz

 

Who we are

Every baptized person is called to ministry. The EfM program provides people with the education to discern and carry out that ministry. EfM participants learn to think theologically to help them see Gods movement in their lives. A detailed study of the bible, Christian church history and other major philosophies provides participants with the theological foundation they need to understand and execute Gods call.

 

2007 Highlights: As a result of a record number of graduations from EfM in 2006 (including 10 St. James parishioners), this year was a year for rebuilding the program.

 

The Monday night group led by Russ Cordner, St. Peters, and Diane Bell, St. Gabriels, continued to meet. The group graduated three students this year, including our own Susie Harding. The group also included six second year students and three first year students representing a nice mix of members from St. James, St. Peters and St. Gabriels.

 

Another group was created in 2007 consisting of four first year students and two third year students. This group, led by Alecia Moroz, was St. Jamess first day-time group. It met Monday afternoons. First-year student, Jennifer Lassiter, also became certified as an EfM mentor and began co-mentoring the group in the spring.

 

How you can be involved...

New groups will be forming and openings will become available in the existing groups in the fall of 2007. If you are called to pursue this serious form of theological study, please contact Alecia Moroz for further information. You cannot imagine the ways in which your life will be enriched by an experience in an EfM small group

 

 

Annual Giving Campaign

 

Ministry Head

Jan Joseph

Ken Getty

 

Who we are

St. James faces many challenges and opportunities as our congregation grows: developing programs to meet the needs of all members, maintaining beautiful but aging facilities and providing necessary personnel and administrative operating costs, among others. The Annual Giving Campaign Ministry helps parishioners further connect the vision of St. James with their own personal and spiritual journeys, encouraging them to increase their commitments of time, talent and treasure to St. James.

 

What we do

       Plans and executes the continuing education of the parish on the subject of stewardship to highlight the opportunities for parishioners to offer their time and talent.

       Plans and conducts a yearly Annual Giving Campaign beginning with the Ministry Fair in September and culminating with the Victory Celebration in November, that inspires the generous and joyful giving of time, talent, and treasure.

       Conducts periodic surveys of time and talent among members of the St. James community.

 

How you can be involved...

       Volunteer to serve on the Annual Giving Campaign Committee that is planning and implementing the autumns campaign.

       Offer to share at appropriate events (such as Adult Forum on Sundays) your personal or spiritual journey.

       Generously support the mission and ministry of St. James through the generous sharing of your time, talent, and treasure: in other words, get involved, and make a written financial pledge.

 

Fellowship Events

 

Ministry Head

TBD

 

Who we are

The Fellowship Events Committee brings our parish family together through a wide variety of social events and activities planned throughout the year. Volunteering and participating in Fellowship Events is a great way to meet your fellow parishioners and more fully experience the wonderful fellowship that St. James has to offer.

 

What we do

We coordinate a wide range of social events. Regular events planned by Fellowship Events include the Annual Parish Meeting Potluck Dinner in January, the Bishops Visit and Reception in June and the St. James Day Picnic in July. Past events have included Oktoberfest and Mardi Gras parties, pig roasts, progressive and themed international dinners, a Dickens Advent Dinner and even a softball team. Several new fun events are being planned for the coming year, as well, and we would like your ideas.

 

How you can be involved...

You can serve on the Fellowship Events Committee by:

         Helping to determine the yearly events, locate volunteers to run each event and assist in the coordination of the events.

         Volunteering to work on a specific event that interests you.

         Staying tuned to the weekly service bulletins throughout the year and to offer your help.

         Letting us know about an event you have in mind or volunteer to chair it! Well gladly help you put a committee together to make it happen.

 

Newcomer Committee

 

Ministry Head

Ruth Blakeslee

 

Who we are

The Newcomers Committee is a group of friendly and active St. James members charged with seeking new ways to welcome newcomers and include them in church activities.

 

What we do

We assist the parish in assuring that all visitors and newcomers are given a warm welcome and are introduced to new people. Committee members serve as greeters, speak with those who have indicated an interest in our parish, assist with Newcomer coffees and other events, and generally help newcomers to be made comfortable and assisted toward full participation in the life of St. James.

 

How you can be involved...

The Committee normally meets one Sunday per month to host a Newcomer Coffee in the Janney Parlor. Other meetings are scheduled as needed for planning upcoming events and/or assembling Newcomer bags. Interested parties are encouraged to attend and participate in these meetings and coffees. But remember, every member of our congregation is a member of this special committee. The most important way to get involved would be to introduce yourself to a newcomer, make them feel welcome, and be sure to make our committee known to them as a resource for questions as they become more familiar with our wonderful church family.

 

 

Sunday Coffee Hour Hosts

 

Ministry Head

(7:45) Bill & Sheila Brooks

(9:00) Susan Moffett

(11:15) Freddie & Bill Martin

 

Who we are

We are part of the St. James family dedicated to helping Sundays become an integral part of fellowship for the parishioners and visitors. The purpose of coffee hour hosting is to provide nourishment during fellowship hour following each church service. It is a special, relaxing time to meet and greet old and new friends alike. It also offers a "treat" for your little ones who have behaved during church.

 

What we do

Coffee refreshments are provided by someone, either a single person, a couple or one or more families. It could be as simple as doughnuts or as elaborate as home cooked goodies. Whatever is provided will be enjoyed and appreciated. Please check with your ministry head for where your coffee hour is held, as it changes depending on the season.

 

How you can be involved...

Everyone loves to be greeted by the smell of coffee and goodies after church. It is a good way to meet those who attend your service as well as share a snack with them. Please see one of the ministry heads if you are interested in hosting. The commitment of hosting one Sunday a year is pretty minimal and the reward is great.

 

 

Foyer Groups

 

Ministry Head

Doug & Joan Corderman

 

Who we are

We are small groups of eight to ten people dedicated to make new friendships and strengthen older relationships.

 

What we do

We take turns hosting a meal in our homes or elsewhere. Each group sets its own schedule by consensus, typically meeting about once a month. Meals do not have to be sit-down dinners; cookouts or buffets are fine. The only expectation of participants is that you take your turn as host, (or co-host in some circumstances), and try to attend as many of the dinners within your group as possible.

 

How you can be involved...

Groups are reorganized every six months so that participants get the chance to know as many others as possible. Everyone is welcome, both couples and singles. The only requirement is that you like to eat and make friends. Please contact the ministry head if you are interested.

 

 

20s/30s Group

 

Ministry Head

The Rev. Mary Davila, Assistant to the Rector for Children and Youth Ministries

 

Who we are

The 20s/30s group was formed in 2006 when a group of Gen Xers got together and said, lets form a young adult group at St. James! We are a group bound by the common denominator of our age, and we represent a diverse spectrum of St. James parishioners and friends.

 

What we do

We gather for dinner and fellowship on the first Monday of every month. Group members take turns hosting dinners in their homes. Several of the 20s/30s folks serve as youth leaders, and we are planning various outreach activities, overnight excursions, and discipleship opportunities for the year.

 

How you can be involved...

Contact Sarah DiPier or Pastor Mary to receive group emails about activities. Coming to a Monday night dinner is a great way to become connected to other young people in the congregation. And we dont ask for i.d. at the door--you can self-select into this group even if youre not technically still in your 30s!

 

 

Library

 

Ministry Head

Mary Pellicano

 

Who we are

We are a group of dedicated parishioners committed to the support of the educational, devotional and recreational needs of St. James. To that end, we seek to enhance the Christian Formation program at St. James by providing appropriate materials and resources to staff and students. The Library also strives to provide reference resources, multi-media materials, and fiction and non-fiction reading materials to aid in the spiritual development of individual parishioners and clergy, their families and church ministries.

 

What we do

The Library Committee maintains a collection of more than 500 books and multi-media materials in the conference room located on the second floor of the Janney House. Parishioners can browse the collection in the Parish Library or view selected titles on display in the Parish Hall. An online card catalog is also available and can be accessed remotely through the churchs website. The Library Committee also sponsors the St. James Library Book Club, which meets monthly.

 

How you can be involved...

Come to the library and browse the collection. Check out a book (or two). Let us know what types of materials you'd like to see in the library. Come to our monthly book club meeting.

 

 

Nursery

 

Ministry Head

Dawn Stejbach

 

Who we are

The Nursery is staffed with a combination of professional adults, teenagers, and parent volunteers. Together, we ensure each child is warmly welcomed into a safe, loving and nurturing environment during Sunday worship and weeknight events.

 

What we do

The Nursery provides childcare services for children aged infant through 5 years of age. Childcare is provided at each Sunday service and most weeknight classes and events.

 

How you can be involved...

The Nursery operates on a Co-op basis. Parents who regularly use the Nursery contribute their time by assisting during a Sunday service. We are always looking for mature, caring individuals to volunteer their time during a Sunday service. We also recruit new help as a portion of the staff is paid part-time. If you are interested in a more permanent position, please contact Dawn Stejbach at the above e-mail address.

 

 

Adult Christian Formation

 

Ministry Head

The Rev. Kate Bryant, Assistant to the Rector for Adult Ministries

 

Who we are

St. James has a long tradition of Adult Christian Formation that enables adults, wherever they are on their spiritual journey, to grow in the knowledge and practice of our faithso that they can be better followers of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Adult Christian Formation is a cornerstone element of the many Discipleship Ministries offered at St. James.

 

What we do

Adult Christian Formation (ACF) occurs in many settings, e.g., groups such as EFM, Bible Study, the Foyer Groups, and the Book Club. Our regular onsite-offerings are: the Sunday morning Forum Hours, the on-going Baptism-Preparation and Membership classes, special seasonal classes and seminars in Advent and Lent, Inquirers classes, and the mid-week, Going Deeper in our Faith classes (of various themes and topics.) We also offer regular Open Q & As and Coffee with the Rector where timely issues in the life of the congregation and the wider Church can be freely and openly discussed. All of these offerings are usually held at St. James at convenient times and dates and with childcare provided (at no cost to participants). In the future we hope to offer additional opportunities for formation that fall outside of the traditional class-structure, such as pilgrimages, discernment groups, and overnight retreats.

 

How you can be involved

We are always looking for:

         Suggestions of topics to offer;

         Class presenters, either from St. James or guest speakers;

         Volunteers to help set-up the program, e.g., contacting potential speakers and coordinating/scheduling them;

         Volunteers to assist the Office Staff with the brochures.

 

 

Administration Ministries

 

Office Staff

 

Who we are...

We are the people behind the scenes that take care of the day-to-day administrative needs of the office. We also assist in help the ministries with their individual projects and events. Our staff:

         Keith Nelsen Stroud, Director of Parish Operations, keith@stjamesleesburg.org

         Janine Carmichael, Communications Coordinator, janine@stjamesleesburg.org

         Kris Kennedy, Administrative Assistant, kris@stjamesleesburg.org

         Sheri Nelson, Financial Administrator, sheri@stjamesleesburg.org

         Kay Gregg, Registrar & Wedding Coordinator, kay@stjamesleesburg.org

         Adan Cortes, Sexton

         Carlos Rodriguez, Sunday Sexton

 

What we do

We all do a variety of functions. Listed below is a brief summary of our individual responsibilities:

         Communications Coordinator: Church newsletter Loaves & Fishes, Sunday bulletins and announcements, special mailings

         Administrative Assistant: Room reservations, Baptism sign-up, general office duties

         Financial Administrator: Disbursements/reimbursements, budgeting, payroll

         Registrar/Wedding Coordinator: Membership records, wedding information

         Sexton: Weekday maintenance, cleaning, and day porter duties

         Sunday Sexton: Sunday worship, Sunday school, and coffee hour support

 

How you can be involved...

If you would like to volunteer your time to cover the office phones, help with church mailings or help with any property issues (i.e. painting, mowing, etc.), please contact the Church Office at (703)777-1124.

 

Church Street Property Committee

 

Ministry Head

Brent Chapman

 

Who we are...

We are a small, but dedicated group working to preserve and protect the historic St. James Cemetery. Committee members have varying interests including, but not limited to preservation, restoration, history, research, stonework, and landscape design.

 

What we do

The committee is currently overseeing the necessary foundation work for all future projects at the cemetery. We establish rules and regulations for new and replacement tombstones. We seek to restore damaged tombstones, create a more appealing landscape, and work towards the restoration of active internment for the mortal remains of parishioners.

 

How you can be involved...

To become involved, please contact Brent Chapman for more information.

 

Parish Historian

 

Ministry Head

Jack Davison

Stacy Harrison

 

Who we are...

The Parish Historian is someone who has been a part of St. James for many years and knows the history of our church, or at least where to access this information.

 

What we do

The Parish Historian gathers information about St. James Parish in order to preserve its history. He is currently developing a discipline of recording the details that now reside primarily in the memory of parishioners.

 

How you can be involved...

If you are interested in the history of St. James or would like to become involved in this ministry, please contact the ministry head.

 

Property Committee

 

Ministry Heads

Clark Ragsdale

 

Who we are

The St. James congregation worships in an historic one-hundred-year-old church in the heart of the Leesburg historic district. Would you like to play a part in insuring that our facilities and property are used and maintained in a manner that benefits present and future members of the congregation? Are you an expert on logistics? If your answer to either one of those questions is yes, or if you are looking for a way to get more involved at St. James, we can use your help! We have a lot of very important issues that we are facing and would love to tap into the collective brainpower of our congregation. During the renovation and expansion of the current property, the Property Committee will plan for, budget for, and oversee the relocation of the congregation, Preschool, staff and other ministries to temporary facilities. We are also in the process of establishing Standard Operating Procedures for the use of the St. James facilities. Please join us as we look at ways to leverage our current and future resources to help achieve the missions of St. James.

 

How you can be involved...

We meet on the last Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Library. Please contact Jon Aycock to become involved.

 

Finance Committee

 

Ministry Head

Tom Small

 

Who we are...

We are small group of parishioners with backgrounds in finance, budgeting, and administration that are committed to ensuring the financial well being of St. James. We seek to provide the resources that enable other ministries to carry out their roles.

 

What we do

We prepare the annual budget, present it to the vestry for approval and monitor performance throughout the year. We advise the vestry in any financial affairs that may arise. We monitor any funds the church may have, such as Trust funds.

 

How you can be involved...

If you have a background in finance, accounting, law, insurance, or administration, and want to be involved as a committee member, contact the ministry head. If you have experience in any of these areas and wish to serve as a consultant to the committee when special needs arise we would like to know about you.

 

King Street Oversight Committee

 

Ministry Head

John Wright

 

Who we are...

Bill Brooks, Ken Getty, Sr. Warden, Rory Clark, Jr. Warden, Sheri Nelson, Parish Financial Administrator, Jim Quinn, Tom Small, Chairman, Parish Finance Committee, Rich Vaaler, Managing Director, Vaaler Real Estate.

 

What we do

The King Street properties located on the corner of North & King Streets were acquired by St. James in April 2005 for $1.4 million. The property consists of four professional suites totaling approximately 5800 sq. ft., three garages and an adjacent parking lot.

 

At the current time, the property is managed as a leasing entity and is financially self-sufficient, that is, rental income basically covers operating, tax and mortgage (balloon loan) expenses. The Vestry authorized the purchase of the property in 2005 with the understanding that it would be financially self-sufficient and place no drain on St. James operating budget, but at the same time, provides us with the potential for future adjacent Parish space, if so desired.

 

The Project has been able to maintain financial self-sufficiency throughout the last year and a half (barring an initial church cash loan of $10,000 for start-up costs) despite some lease arrangements that were below current market rates at the time of our acquisition. As these leases come up for renewal over the next two years, our goal will be to raise the rates to current market levels, thus providing a positive cash flow to St. James, possibly sometime in 2008.

 

Regarding the Projects finances, special recognition needs to be given to Rich Vaaler and his team, who unselfishly administer the property on a day-to-day basis, PRO BONO, at no cost to St. James. This donation to the parish is significant and contributes measurably to the projects bottom line.

 

 

Vestry

 

What is the Vestry

The St. James Vestry consists of the clergy and 12 elected, adult parishioners in good standing.

 

What the Vestry does

The Vestry performs the duties prescribed in the Canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Virginia. These duties include transacting the business affairs of the church, overseeing the operation and maintenance of the church property, ensuring the church is duly prepared for every occasion of public worship, and ensuring the employees of the church properly perform their duties.

 

The Vestry elects a Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Register (Clerk), and a Treasurer who continue in their positions until their successors are elected and qualified. The Senior Warden provides overall leadership for the Vestry, the Junior Warden oversees the care and maintenance of the church property, and the Register records the proceedings of the Vestry and signs official documents on behalf of the Vestry. The Vestry meets monthly and also conducts additional meetings as required.

 

How Vestry members are elected

Vestry members are elected during the annual church meeting. If a vacancy occurs during the interval between annual meetings, the Vestry may elect a qualified parishioner to fill the vacancy until the next annual church meeting. Vestry candidates are nominated by a nominated committee or nominated by a parishioner during the annual meeting.

 

Vestry Members for 2007 are

Ken Getty, Senior Warden

Rory Clark, Junior Warden

Clayton Cameron, Clerk

Jon Aycock

Jan Joseph

Sandra Moody

Barbara Poell

Karl Riedel

Ken Robinson

Fred Williams

Chuck Womack

Laura Young