Worship

Music

What is Worship and Music?

Music in the Episcopal Church is revered as a deeply spiritual, sacred practice. Although music within the church as a whole can greatly vary, the Hymnal of The Episcopal Church and centuries of tradition bring Episcopalians and those interested in the faith together in the worship.

St. James seeks to share the classic beauty of Anglican cathedral tradition with one and all as an engaging and immersive communal effort. Liturgical offerings include a variety of sacred choral music, such as appointed psalms and anthems, during our 10:30 a.m. Sunday Eucharist services. Special musical offerings are always free and open to the public and include Evensong, Sung Compline, Holy Week Services, and Advent Lessons & Carols, as well as other notable events throughout the year.

Our stewardship of music is guided by the volunteer and professional efforts of the Chancel Choir and the Treble Choir, under the instruction of our Music Director, Shannon Gallier. Choristers reflect the diversity of our congregation, coming to us from varied backgrounds of faith and home congregations spanning the Greater Baton Rouge area.

Participate in future St. James music offering by viewing our event schedule here.

Chancel Choir
The St. James choir has a reputation for musical excellence and creation, drawn from classic liturgical influence. The Chancel choir sings during 10:30 a.m. weekly services, Evensong, and Compline, as well as special liturgical services and concerts throughout the year. Individuals who are interested in participating and committing to weekly rehearsals and the 10:30 a.m. Sunday worship services are welcome to volunteer.

Rehearsals take place from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesdays in the choir room, located on the second floor of the Parish Hall, and at 9:30 a.m. on Sundays throughout the school year. The adult choir often collaborates with the St. James Treble Choir in offertory anthems or communion meditation.

Treble Choir
The Treble Choir was formed in August 2013 by St. James Music Director, Tricia Delony. Choir participants are auditioned, and range from girls ages 8 and up, and boys with unchanged voices. The choir rehearses weekly during the school year, and sings at two Sunday morning services at St. James monthly.

Auditions are open to local singers. St. James encourages the development of professional commitment and skill by providing Treble choristers a stipend for rehearsals and performances. Youth members grow in confidence, presence, and self-esteem, and gain awareness and appreciation for the disciplined study of poetry, music, and the arts.

Children in Worship

We encourage the spiritual development of all, especially in children and youth. St. James strongly believes that children are the church of today, not just tomorrow. As such we welcome families and children, and strive to deepen children’s relationship with Christ through a wide range of ministry programming.

Nursery Care
St. James provides families a professionally-staffed nursery, located in Werlein Hall. Please follow the signs immediately north of the church in the middle of the block. Nursery care is for children four years old and younger.