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
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: Laurie Gaston
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. Groups are made up of singles, couples, young people, and retired folks; in other words, a cross-section of the congregation. Foyer Groups sign-up is in September. The groups begin meeting in January and rotate host 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. The Holiday Exhibition is held in November 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
EVENTS
Gumbo
Friday, March 8, 2024
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. Contacts: Erin Irby
Crawfish Boil
Friday, April 12, 2024
The Associate Vestry invites all members of St. James together to enjoy a crawfish boil every spring. This is an opportunity for food, fellowship, and fun. Pull up a chair and visit with congregants you might not know and enjoy the delicious Louisiana delicacy or some fare from the Holy Grillers if crawfish are not for you!