Fellowship Ministries

Fellowship at St. James centers on the sharing of our spiritual life, as we grow in faith and walk alongside one another throughout life’s seasons. Below is a sampling of our Fellowship activities for the upcoming program year.

Bad Girls Book Club
Third Monday of each month | 6 p.m.
The St. James Bad Girls Book Club is a women’s group that meets monthly to read and discuss timely books, enjoy an informal meal, and socialize. The group generally meets at La Madeleine on Jefferson Highway, unless otherwise noted in communications.
Contact: Joan Moore
November: No club meeting
December 5: The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis
January 16: The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hagan
February 20: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
March 20: The Girl in His Shadow by Audrey Blake

St. James Young Adults
every third Tuesday | 7 p.m.
The young adults group seeks to create space for members and friends of St. James to gather in fellowship, worship, and learning. This is an opportunity to connect with your peers in new ways as we explore what it means to be a Christian and an Episcopalian in today’s world.
Contact: Laura Sorey

Wine, Cheese, and a Question (A Virtual Gathering)
Wednesdays | 5 p.m.
This virtual gathering began as a way to maintain and build community during the time of required social distancing in the Spring of 2020. The group, led by Fr. Don & Kathy White, gathers via Zoom each week. Father Don provides a thought-provoking reflection and questions for discussion.
Contact: Fr. Don

Foyer Groups
Foyer is a French word meaning “hearthside,” implying the warmth of a close, small group of friends sharing a common love and concern for each other. At St. James, our Foyer Groups, are small groups of eight who gather together on a regular but informal basis for purely social reasons- to enjoy one another’s company, to strengthen bonds of community, and to meet new church members. There is no agenda or plan, just casual fellowship and a refreshing meal. Groups are made up of singles, couples, young people, retired folks; in other words, a cross-section of the congregation. Foyer groups sign-up is in August/September. The groups meet four times over the Program Year, rotating homes.
Contact: Brent Caldwell 

The James Gang
The James Gang is comprised of mostly retired individuals in our community who gather for luncheons, day trips, and other outings throughout the year, staying active, involved, and building new friendships.
Contact: John Cadwallader

Education for Ministry Graduate Group
Education for Ministry graduates meet during the months of October-November and January-May. The purpose is to gather as graduates of the EfM program for a spiritual feeding. Each month someone volunteers to present a brief lesson followed by a hearty group discussion. Any format and topic will do. The most important thing is that we continue to use our theological reflection skills, our life-time experiences, our knowledge of the bible and tradition to hold a rich discussion about the chosen subject. Contacts: Ann Holmes and Marsha Wade

Garden Guild
The gardens of St. James are a welcoming reminder of God’s creation and an invitation to others to get to know our parish. The Garden Guild’s mission is to maintain and enhance these spaces for the enjoyment of our parish and our city. Parishioners will meet periodically to work in the gardens. All are welcome to volunteer! In fact, this is a great opportunity for families. Contact: Steve Boutwell

Saint James Artists Guild
The St. James Artist Guild is for any practicing artist and member of St. James. Two parish exhibits are scheduled yearly – the Summer Show in July and Holiday Exhibition in November. Both are held in Coleman Hall.
Contact: Nancy Jo Poirrer

Wedding Guild
Marriage is a joyous celebration and is considered a Holy Sacrament in the Episcopal faith. The St. James Wedding Guild members help ensure weddings go as planned by providing assistance to the clergy, the wedding parties, and the families involved with weddings at St. James. Contact: Sue Larisey

Holy Grillers
The Holy Grillers is a group of men who enjoy grilling and fellowship for church events.
Contact: John Cadwallader

Gumbo
Gumbo is St. James’ premier opportunity for fellowship and involvement while we invite our downtown neighbors into our church home for a gumbo luncheon and dinner. Funds raised are dedicated to outreach and special projects of the church. Fifty volunteers are needed at each Gumbo event during Lent to bring our “pop-up” gumbo shop to life. Volunteers answer phones, take orders, serve, cashier, wash dishes, and greet visitors.