Church Ministries at Saint James Episcopal Church
Have you ever walked into a Sunday church service and wondered how you could become more involved beyond just attending worship? At Saint James Episcopal Church on James Island, our church ministries offer countless ways for parishioners to grow in faith while serving God and our community. Whether you're drawn to hands on service, creative expression, or quiet behind the scenes work, there's a place for you and your gifts and talents.
Our Episcopal church ministries reflect the rich tradition of lay participation that makes our denomination special. We believe that every baptized person is called to ministry, not just the clergy. From our newest members to those who've been part of our church family for decades, people of all ages and backgrounds can find meaningful ways to serve at church through our many ministry opportunities.
Church Ministries for Worship - Supporting Our Sunday Services
Altar Guild Ministry
The Altar Guild serves as the quiet, dedicated hands that prepare our sacred space for worship each week. Members like Kitsy Wise, who has served for over 30 years, and Aubra Wilson work behind the scenes washing and ironing linens, polishing silver vessels, and making sure our altar candles are properly maintained. This ministry requires someone who is careful with Eucharistic elements and enjoys serving behind the scenes. As Aubra puts it, "It's like a mini social time with port and wafers" when consuming the remaining blessed elements after services.
Acolytes Ministry
Our acolyte ministry welcomes anyone 8 years and older who wants to be directly involved in the liturgy. Led by Steve Johnston, acolytes serve as crucifers leading the procession with the cross, torchbearers illuminating God's Word, and altar servers helping with the Eucharist. This ministry offers a unique opportunity to gain confidence and deepen your understanding of our beautiful liturgy while being an integral part of worship.
Eucharistic Ministers (Chalicers)
Eucharistic Ministers, also known as chalicers, offer the cup of consecrated wine to communicants during Holy Communion. This ministry embodies the core teaching that all baptized persons are ministers of the church. Steve Johnston provides one on one training, and chalicers typically serve about once a month on a rotation basis.
Lay Readers Ministry
Lay readers share Scripture during our services by reading the Old Testament lesson, Psalm, New Testament lesson, and sometimes leading the Prayers of the People. This ministry reminds us that worship is the work of the whole people of God. Readers like Aubra Wilson help create a meaningful worship experience while encouraging everyone to connect more deeply with God's Word.
Ushers Ministry
Ushers are usually the first impression visitors have of church. Douglas Hord, who has been an usher for an 32 years, leads this welcoming team. Beyond handing out bulletins, ushers greet visitors, help people find seats, collect offerings, and make sure everyone feels welcome. This ministry is perfect for people who like meeting others and want to represent our church's hospitality.
Music Ministry - Celebrating Faith Through Song
Dr. David Friddle leads our Music Ministry, bringing tradition and a welcoming spirit to everyone who loves making music together. You don't need to read music or have previous experience to join the choir. We welcome all voices and experience levels. Just bring your willingness to learn! If you play an instrument, Dr. Friddle is always excited to include varied musical contributions in our worship services.
Christian Formation and Education Church Ministries
Christian Education Ministry
Led by Kate Eggleton, our Sunday School creates a fun, engaging environment where children can grow in their faith. A typical Sunday morning includes snacks, short lessons, and activities or crafts related to what they're learning. You don't need teaching experience or deep Bible knowledge, just a heart for children and a willingness to learn alongside them.
Adult Christian Formation
Every Sunday from 9 to 9:45 AM, adults gather in the parlor for engaging discussions led by Father Taylor. These conversations explore everything from Bible stories to Episcopal Church history and theology, giving everyone a chance to learn more about our faith and worship practices.
Fellowship and Community Church Ministries
Hospitality Ministry
Our Hospitality Ministry, under Yvonne Jordan's leadership, brings people together through food and fellowship. They organize coffee hour after the 10 AM service, coordinate church-sponsored receptions, weekly Lenten meals, and parish-wide gatherings. Using Sign-up Genius, they make it easy for members to contribute and help create these welcoming experiences.
Daughters of the King (DOK)
One of our newest ministries, Daughters of the King, welcomed 10 women in September 2024 (the Teresa of Calcutta Chapter). Georgie Skover leads this ministry and it's for women and girls ages 7 to 107 who desire a closer walk with the Lord. Members commit to three core vows - prayer, service, and evangelism. They meet monthly for study, prayer, and discussion of service projects.
Saint James Croquet Club
Peter Reeves started this fellowship activity in September 2023 and it's been a hit! The club welcomes all skill levels for ages 15 and up, offering free instruction to newcomers. What makes it even better? Annual dues go directly to support the church - last year they contributed $1,900.
Service and Outreach Ministries
Buildings and Grounds Ministry
Mike Barker leads this dedicated team that to help keep the church running smoothly! He makes sure we have a safe and beautiful place for worship - from HVAC and fire safety to technology and minor repairs.
Everyone brings something different to the table. Whether it's carpentry skills, a good eye for design, organizing abilities, or just being willing to lend a hand when needed.
Events Ministry
Yvonne Jordan helps coordinate our role as a community venue, working with families to celebrate quinceañeras, birthdays, baby showers, wedding receptions, and other special occasions. This ministry does double duty - welcoming new people into our community while generating revenue that supports our growing congregation.
Weddings Ministry
Marilyn Reeves coordinates our wedding ministry, helping promote Saint James as a beautiful venue while guiding couples through every step of the process. Couples can choose from three ceremony locations: our historic church that seats 225, an intimate indoor chapel for 50 guests, or the magical outdoor creekside chapel for 25 people. All three spaces connect through our stunning colonnade, perfect for photos.
James Island Elementary Tutoring
Volunteers like Jane Kaufman work with K-2 students, giving them the one-on-one reading support that busy teachers don't always have time to provide. Since strong reading skills open doors to everything else in life, this individual attention helps children build both confidence and ability during these important early years.
Specialized Church Ministries
Flower Guild Ministry
Betsy Cooper bring beauty to our worship spaces through gorgeous floral arrangements. This creative ministry gives you complete freedom in design, with members taking turns and often choosing Sundays that are especially meaningful to them.
Nursery Ministry
Joyce Daughtrey leads our nursery ministry, providing safe, loving care for children newborn to age 5 during Sunday services. This ministry is a must for welcoming young families. When parents know their children are happy and well cared for, they can focus on worship and really connect with our community.
Churchyard Ministry
Alexander Pratt takes care of our historic cemetery, working with families during some of life's most difficult moments and making sure everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our churchyard holds burials dating back to the 1700s, showing just how long Saint James has been part of this community.
Finding Your Church Ministry Match
With so many church volunteer opportunities available, how do you choose where to serve? Think about what you enjoy and what fits your schedule. Love working with kids? Christian education or nursery ministry could be perfect. Have a musical side? Our choir or special events might be calling your name. Prefer working quietly behind the scenes? Altar Guild or Buildings and Grounds might be just right.
Many people discover unexpected talents and passions by trying different ministries. Don't worry if you're new to everything. Each ministry provides training and pairs newcomers with experienced volunteers who genuinely enjoy sharing what they know.
What makes Episcopal church committees and ministries special is how they live out our belief that every baptized person is called to ministry. Whatever way you choose to serve builds up our church family and makes a real difference in our community.
Start Your Church Ministry Journey Today
Whether you've been here for years and want to get more involved, or you're new and wondering how to connect, our church ministries have a place for you. From worship roles like lectors and acolytes to hands on service in hospitality and outreach, there's a way for your interests and gifts to make a meaningful impact.
Here's the best part about getting involved - you'll find that serving others actually makes your own faith journey richer. As so many of our ministry leaders say, "You get way more than you give."
Ready to learn more about ways to serve at Saint James? Give the church office a call at 843-277-2765 or shoot an email to stjamesepiscopalji@gmail.com. We'll connect you with the right ministry contacts who can answer any questions.
Your church family can't wait to welcome you into the joy of serving together!
