Life at St James’ is richer when you’re part of it. Come along, bring a friend, or just drop in and see what fits – you’ll be welcomed. Below is a list of groups with a short description.
Home group
First Thursday of each month · Evening (Thursday). Led by Fr Brian Tubbs, this small gathering meets in a home for relaxed conversation, prayer and a chance to dig deeper into faith and everyday life. Curious? Email the parish office and we’ll connect you.
Book Group
The St James’ Book group meets every 4 - 6 weeks to read a book chosen by its members. Most books have a religious or spiritual theme, but not all, and we happily read novels, memoirs, biographies, plays and poetry. Our membership has grown during the pandemic as we have continued to enjoy lots of lively conversation by Zoom. If you like reading and talking about books in a very informal way, do speak to Jill Mather in church or send her an email through the church office.
St James' Choir
St James' is blessed with a dedicated group of singers who add harmony to our worship at the Parish Eucharist each week. Regular rehearsals on Monday evenings include the hymns and music setting for the following Sunday as well as occasional anthems. Although the singers sit together in the choir stalls, they remain very much a part of the congregation, there not to perform but to bring added colour to the worship through singing in harmony. New members are always welcome and although an ability to read music is helpful, it is by no means essential. Practice tracks are circulated in advance, so it is easy to learn your part. Interested? Catch Tim Bayton after a service or drop him a line.
Brass Quartet and other musicians
Four experienced brass players meet at St James' to rehearse for concerts and other performances. For special occasions they also offer their instrumental talents to lift our worship. Although the number of musicians in the brass quartet is naturally limited, they and other musicians often play at the Parish eucharist and other services, facilitating contemplation during Communion or augmenting our praise together with the organ. If you play an instrument and would like to offer your worship in this way from time to time, please speak to Tim Bayton.
Craft Group
Bring a project or start one from scratch. You’ll find friendly makers working on artwork, crochet, card-making, tapestry or knitting for charity. Right now we’re sewing single bed sheets for an orphanage in Uganda (Warm Baby Project) and knitting knee blankets, warm hats and children’s jumpers for Moldova with Christian Response to Eastern Europe.
Everyone is welcome, seasoned crafter or complete beginner. We have wool, needles and patterns ready if you’d like to try something new.
Got a free Friday afternoon? Drop in for craft, conversation and a cuppa.