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Thoughts  from parishionsers - 
Why We're Here

When I'm talking to friends or even people I meet randomly I always make sure to try to include that I go to and am pretty involved at church.  The reactions I receive are all over the place but I would say most are surprised and interested.  I'm not sure if they're surprised because of my age or if it's because I'm an openly gay man, but I like to point out how open and accepting the St. James family is. I always invite anyone who's interested enough to join me for a service and at least check out the beautiful architecture. 
I was looking for a church that was involved in working for justice. I was especially interested in the Indigent Burial Ministry that I read about on the website. 
I was a guest of a church member when first invited to St. James.  I was very interested in the Episcopal church and in particular, St. James.  I had heard of St. James' storied history and its present welcoming family of church members.

When I went to my first service, all these things were evident.  To this day, I am grateful for making such good church member friends.  It is truly a family.

The church is beautiful with all of the wonderful stained glass and intricate wood-carved altars.  It is inspiring for me to say I worship there.
When I discus St. Jame's with my friends, what do I say???

I first say that some of my dearest friends are my St. Jame's family. A few years back, I really learned just how they are there for you when you need them, Their commitment to people, is a true and honest commitment. It is not hypocritical or lip service, they do walk the talk.

I would also tell them, that I often see Church's with the "All are Welcome" sign. It's probably not very Christan on my part, because I chuckle thinking that I already know the place where that is something so basic in the fabric of who we are and I don't believe there is a community out there that lives that quite like we do.

We are a bunch of imperfect Christians making our way through this imperfect life. Very different people come from many different directions to become one body, and its a pretty special thing to be a part of.

They call me one of the bones of that body, but you can call me Sue.