St. James Episcopal Church

Specialties

Dear Friend,

Welcome to St. James! Whoever you are, wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are invited to discover the love of God in Christian community with us. Whether you are a life-​long Episcopalian, or a seeker who doesn’t know what or whether to believe, you will find a place here.

We invite you to join us for worship (8 & 10 a.m. on Sundays) or for prayer and meditation (7:30 a.m. on Tuesdays & 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays) — it is the best way to get to know us. We value your presence and honor your desire for God. Come as you are and participate, as you feel comfortable.

St. James embraces people of all ages and backgrounds. You will find a variety of social, educational, and service opportunities for children, youth, and adults. Please let us know if you have any questions about our parish or The Episcopal Church, or if we can be of assistance in any way. Let us share our joy, rooted in God’s love, with you.

Peace and all good,

The Rev. John Kirkley, Rector

History

Established in 1890.

1890– St. James officially founded.

1898– A ‘guild hall’ is erected on Clement Street between 5^th and 6^th Avenues and serves as a hub for neighborhood activities.

1903– A handsome new church replaces the guild hall.

1923– The church moves to California St. between 8^th and 9^th Avenues, the present-​day location of St. James. Ground breaking commences on June 30^th, 1923.

1963– The St. James Preschool is established.

1984– A new contemporary era at St. James begins. A progressive approach to theology causes church membership to swell and attracts numerous community groups and non-​profits to use the church facilities.

2000– In December of 2000 the Vestry draws up a Statement of Inclusivity and St. James declares itself an Oasis Congregation.

2010– Rev. John Kirkley becomes the seventh Rector of St. James.

Meet the Business Owner

John K.

Business Owner

The Rev. John Kirkley, Rector

Ordained in 2002, I served for two years on the staff of both Holy Innocents’ in San Francisco) and Every Voice Network (EVN). EVN provides multimedia educational resources for The Episcopal Church, such as the popular Via Media series. For more than six years I was rector of Saint John the Evangelist, San Francisco. I began serving as rector of St. James on November 1, 2010.

For me, the heart of ministry is inviting people into a deeper love of God, and of all things in God, through Jesus Christ. It is a ministry grounded in contemplative practice, nurtured by collaboration and inclusive community, and profoundly committed to the good news that God’s reign of justice, generosity, and joy is present to us here and now.

I look forward to meeting you!