History

St James Anglican Church began in 1882. As a mission of Trinity Anglican Church, Galt, the first Anglican service was conducted by Rev. Canon Hinks of Galt in the Royal Templars' Hall on Cooper Street. Later services were held in the Temperance Hall. The Parish of St. James was organized in 1884 and on June 17, 1893 the cornerstone was laid for a church. Dedication services were held on October 28, 1893 by Bishop Baldwin of the Diocese of Huron.  St. James was separated on January 01, 1890 from Preston, to which it had been attached since its organization, and continued on as a separate parish. Rev. E. Lee became Rector but only for a short time as he resigned in the fall of 1890.  Rev. W. N. Duthie then became Rector of the parish, effective November 01, 1890. The congregation celebrated a Golden Jubilee in 1943. This first church, which was located at 30 Harvey Street, Cambridge(Hespeler), Ontario was closed in 1990 when the new church was erected on Ellis Road, its present location.

F.A.Q.’s (frequently asked questions)

What must I do to become a member of St. James`?

You must be baptized to become a member of any Anglican Church including St. James`.  If you have never been baptized, you should contact the rector, who will help you make the necessary arrangements.

What is Baptism?

Baptism is the sacrament by which we, God`s children, are made members of Christ`s Body, the world-wide church.  At baptism, you publicly renounce Satan, repent you of your sins, and accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, just as new Christians have done since the earliest days of the church.  You are baptized with water in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and you are welcomed officially into the fellowship of believers, your church family.

How can I become a member of St. James` if I was baptized in a denomination other than Anglican?

Baptism done in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, regardless of denomination, is recognized as a valid baptism.  You will not need to be re-baptized.  Simply let us know of your baptism and you can become a member.  You may want to consider the sacrament of Confirmation as a way of strengthening your faith.

If I am a member of another Anglican Church, how do I become a member of St. James`?

Let us know you wish to have your membership transferred from your former parish. We will look after the rest. Your name should appear on only one parish list.

What is expected of St. James` members?

St. James` members are expected to:

-make a commitment to grow spiritually. This can be facilitated by regular attendance at worship, prayer and participation in the life of the parish.  Bible studies, and other educational/sharing opportunities are provided on a regular basis.

-represent Christ and His Church to the world. As Christians we are called by God to bear witness to Christ wherever we may be, and to carry on Christ`s work of reconciliation and healing in the world.

-give sacrificially of their talents, time  and money to the work of God in the world. Equal gifts are not expected, but equal sacrifice is encouraged