Greening the Church, December 23rd

Please join us on December 23rd at 10 AM and help decorate St. James' Church for Christmas! We need everyone’s help, and you'll have lots of fun! For additional information, please contact Lillie Barrett at garylillie502@gmail.com.

Holiday Food Baskets

St. James' Parish will be partnering with Friendship United Methodist Church again this year to coordinate distribution of Christmas Holiday meals on December 20th from 7-11 AM. This is a great family service opportunity!

Please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net if you are able to help! Donations of frozen turkeys and cash for groceries are needed by Wednesday, December 17th.

Thanks for supporting this St. James’ Parish ministry and helping to provide holiday meals to those members of our community in need.

November Community Assistance Fund

With your contributions we were able to help eight families in November in the amount of $1,864. Most of our clients this month were from the local mobile home parks and they were facing eviction because they could not pay their lot rent. Others needed help with their electric bills in order to prevent shut-off. We can only help them with part of what they need and even though some have health issues, they have to find a way to ask for assistance at other South County churches. We are still short on funds for December and into the New Year. Even our SCCEAG BGE funds are running low and the worst part of winter is still to come. Anyway you can provide help to our neighbors in need will be greatly appreciated.

Lunch with Santa!, December 13th

Santa will be coming to St. James' Parish on Saturday, December 13th from noon to 2 PM! Parish children ages 1–11 years old, are invited to join us for lunch, games, crafts, and a visit from Santa and his helper who will hand out a surprise to the children attending. This activity is a chance to reach out to our community and those who are less fortunate. Please sign up on the Youth Bulletin Board. For additional information, please contact Sharon McGlaughlin at sharon.mcglaughlin@yahoo.com. Join us for lots of fun!

Salvation Army Carol Sing, December 9th

Please join with the Salvation Army's Brass Ensemble December 9th to help less fortunate families and enjoy singing Christmas carols. The Carol Sing at 7:30 p.m. in the church is preceded by fellowship at 6 p.m. and a potluck supper coordinated by The Women of St. James’ Parish at 6:30 p.m. in the parish hall. The carols are accompanied by the Brass Ensemble and Patricia Tyndall on the organ. Two of the highlights of the evening are the three holy kings chosen from the audience for the carol, "We Three Kings," and the solo by St. James' Parish Music Director Michael Ryan.

Every year, the youth of the parish make a pilgrimage to a toy store to buy toys for needy children to be distributed by the Salvation Army. The money for the toys comes from the Thanksgiving offering, the free-will offering at the Messiah Sing-Along and by the sponsors who cover all the expenses of both events so that the poor will benefit.

Please join us on December 9th for fun, fellowship, and Christmas caroling to benefit the important work of the Salvation Army.

Christmas Tree Decorating

Calling all of Santa's elves - we will be decorating the Parish Hall Christmas tree on Sunday, November 23rd beginning at 11:00 AM. Pizza will be served when the tree is finished! Thanks, Jane Baldwin.

Thanksgiving Dinners

PLEASE help St. James' and Friendship United Methodist Church provides groceries for Thanksgiving dinners for South County families in need. We need volunteers to help on Saturday, November 22nd from 7-11 AM. This is an excellent family service opportunity. We have a lot of fun and hope you will join us. For more information, please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net.

Outreach Committee Dessert Fundraiser

Help is needed from our wonderful cooks and bakers to make homemade desserts to be sold during the intermission of the South County Concert Series at Southern High School on Sunday, November 16th at 3 PM. Please drop off your homemade desserts in the Parish Kitchen on Sunday (please label “for the Concert”). Any homemade desserts will be appreciated – cookies, cakes, brownies, and pies. Many thanks! For additional information email Sharon Hall at hallshay@aol.com.

Outreach Committee Fund Raiser - Christmas pins

The Outreach Committee is selling beautiful and inspirational art deco Christmas pins again this year. These lovely Designs by Lucinda are only $15 each and make perfect gifts for any occasion or holiday! For additional information on the pins, or to place your order, please contact Kim Parker at manydogs@verizon.net. Thanks for your support!

October Community Assistance Fund

The Community Assistance Team disbursed $4,443.46 to help eighteen families in the month of October for BGE assistance, eviction prevention, medical assistance and several other critical expenditures. In addition we drew $650 from the South County Community Energy Assistance Group (SCCEAG) for electrical assistance. Due to our largest outlay of funds ever for one month, we have depleted our available funds. With the Holidays approaching and winter weather on the horizon, we desperately need additional contributions. We greatly appreciate your generosity to help those in our community most in need.

Salvation Army Stockings

Salvation Army Stockings will be available on November 2nd. Please consider taking one (or two). The stockings benefit local children in time of need. Extra stockings will be placed in the back of both churches. The drop box for the stockings will be in the foyer between the offices and church school. You can drop the filled stockings off anytime between November 2nd and December 7th. We will be taking all stockings to the Annapolis Salvation Army on December 8th. If you have any questions, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net.

Holiday Food Baskets - Please Help Feed the Needy

The Outreach Committee will coordinate distribution of Holiday meals on Saturday, November 22nd (Thanksgiving baskets) and again on December 20th (Christmas baskets) from 7-11 AM. This is a great family service opportunity!

Please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net if you can help! Donations of frozen turkeys are needed as well as cash contributions to purchase the other food items for the baskets. Thanks for supporting this St. James' Parish ministry and helping to provide holiday meals to those members of our community in need.

Messiah Sing-Along - Sponsored for both Fall and Spring

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, our Messiah Sing-Along is fully funded for both fall and spring. All donations at these events will go to the Salvation Army (fall) and the Community Assistance Fund (spring). The fall Messiah Sing-Along will be held on Sunday, November 30th.

Youth Service Projects

The youth in the J2A class would like to provide a ministry of service to parishioners in need of a little help on a project at home. If you are in need of a little assistance, please contact one of the J2A mentors, Sted Wolf at cwolf@usgbc.org, Linda Dinges at ldinges@mtb.com, or Norma Dorsey at ndorsey53@gmail.com for more information.

All Hallows' Eve Celebration and Trunk or Treat, October 24th 6 - 8 PM

Children of all ages, young and old (hint: adults), are invited to dress up and enjoy fellowship in St. James' Parish Hall. Preschoolers through 5th graders will enjoy dinner at 6 PM, followed by fun and games beginning at 7 PM. All parishioners are invited to bring their cars to the parking lot for the Trunk or Treat. Decorate your trunks with your favorite All Hallows' Eve decorations and pass out treats to our young people who will visit each car starting at 7 PM.

For more information or to sign up, please contact Dawn Campbell+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com.

Parish Leadership Workshops

The 2015 Annual Parish Celebration will be held in January. At that time, three members will be rotating off the Vestry and will be replaced with new parishioners.

Two Leadership Workshops have been scheduled in order to provide information to parishioners who might be interested in learning more about what it is like to serve in a leadership position on the Vestry. The workshops will be held on Saturday, November 22 (10 AM - noon) and Monday, November 24 (7-9 PM) in the Choir Room.

Please give prayerful thought to a call to serve. For additional information, or to register for one of the workshops. please contact the Rector at ticknor@stjameslothian.com.

September Community Assistance Fund

We gave $1,026.33 to help a couple of families avoid eviction and to help with an electric bill. These people were very grateful. One person stated that our kindness has given her back her faith in God. Some people we were not able to help but were able to send them in the correct direction to get the help they needed. This ministry continues to be life changing to the clients we help and the committee members helping them.

Pizza & Bible Study for Youth (grades 6-12)

Starting in October we will begin a monthly Bible study for youth grade 6 through grade 12. The Middle School youth (grades 6-8) will be meeting on the second Monday of the month; the first session will be Oct. 13th. The High School youth (grades 9-12) will be meeting on the fourth Monday of the month; the first session will be Oct. 27th.

We will meet from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. Our time together will begin with prayer, pizza and check-in time. We will then spend the next hour watching a short video on one of the Bible characters then, moving on to discussion time, encouraging "youth to see the similarities between themselves and their faith ancestors...Unlikely people called by God to do amazing things."

Please email Dawn+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com if your youth would like to join the Bible study.

Blessing of the Animals, October 5th

There will be a Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday, October 5th at 4 PM in the field opposite St. James' Church. Everyone and their pets are welcome to attend! Please remember that all pets should be either on a leash or in a carrier.

August Community Assistance Fund

In August, the Community Assistance Fund helped five families in the amount of $994.18. The assistance was for eviction prevention, electric, and school supplies. One case was particularly difficult. A lady, who has had her own business as a home contractor was in a serious car accident in April. She almost lost her life and her truck was totaled. She is still facing more surgeries and is about to lose her home that she worked so hard to get. She has two teenage sons to support. St. James' helped her with $400 toward her house payment and other churches in our network have also helped her. She definitely needs more help, but we are now limited in our ability to help for another six months. We continue to pray for her and her family that she finds the resources necessary to sustain her through this very difficult time. The Community Assistance Team thanks you for your continued support on the 1st Sunday of the month.

Messiah Sing-Along - Sponsors Needed!

Sponsors are now being sought for our 28th Annual Messiah Sing-Along to be held on Sunday, November 30th.

Our sponsors make it possible for all donations collected at the Sing-Along and the December Salvation Army Carol Sing to be added to our parish-wide Thanksgiving Offering, all of which is donated to the Salvation Army in support of their ministries in the community. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, there is no cost to St. James' Parish for these events which include a reception held after the Sing-Along and the Carol Sing pot-luck supper. Sponsors will be recognized in the printed program.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact St. James' Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net.

Clothing Ministry Donations - Fall Clothing

Please remember that clean, gently-used fall clothes and shoes are needed for the St. James' Parish clothing ministry. Volunteers are also needed to help sort the donations. Items can be dropped off downstairs in the Christian Education Building. For more information, please contact Taylor Milbradt at tayfm@aol.com.

Ember Day September 17 at Bishop Claggett Center

Leader: The Rev. William H. C. Ticknor - St. James' Parish, Lothian

Reviving the ancient Christian tradition of quarterly Ember Days, these day retreats offer time, silence, beauty and Sabbath rest for the weary. Come to the Claggett Center to be in the presence of GOD seeking His peace, listening to inspiring meditations and choosing to be quiet, walk the labyrinth, read in a comfortable chair, take a walk on the grounds, meditate in the silo chapel, or reflect with friends. A delicious Claggett lunch is included. Come on Tuesday night for personal reflection with no program.

Click here for a copy of the brochure.
Click here to register for the retreat.

Questions about the retreat can be directed to Nancy White+ at muffwhite@comcast.net.

Family Day Picnic & Kayaking - West River Camp

On Sunday, September 21st after the 11 AM service, we will be heading over to West River Center to enjoy some grilling and kayaking/canoeing. Monday, September 22nd is National Family Day, so what better way to celebrate than to spend the afternoon eating and being on the water!

Bring some food to share, and a kayak if you have one (or you can rent one from West River Center). We have a pavilion reserved, so come and join the fun – bring the whole family. There are other self-led activities besides kayaking. All those under the age of 18 must have parental supervision.

Please sign up by Sunday, September 14th by emailing Dawn+ at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com so that we can notify West River Camp of the number of people attending and how many kayak/canoes we will need.

Consecration of the Bishop Suffragan of Maryland, September 6

Consecration of the Bishop Suffragan of Maryland will be held on September 6th, at 11:00 AM, at the Church of the Redeemer. Parishes have been asked to bring non-perishable food items that will be donated to two Baltimore area food pantries in honor of the day. Please bring food contributions to St. James' or St. Marks' on Sunday, August 31st, or drop them off in the foyer outside the Parish offices no later than Friday, September 5th. If you would like more information about the Consecration, please visit the Diocesan website at www.ang-md.org.

Breakfast Club - Thank You

Our Parish, along with other churches, assisted Mt. Zion United Methodist Church with the "Breakfast Club volunteers." Ann Herche, Coordinator, Breakfast Club Ministry, at Mt. Zion, reported that this summer the program handed out 2,623 breakfast bags at Lyons Creek, 2,628 at Patuxent, totaling 5,251. The number represents 5,251 meals for children and adults who otherwise might not have a breakfast. There were 57 volunteers to pack and deliver the breakfast bags.

Food drive thank you on behalf of our Boy Scout Troop 840

We would like to sincerely thank all of the parishioners who participated in our Troop's 2nd Annual Doug Anderson Food Drive. This special food drive directly benefited the SCAN Food Pantry right here at St. James', and all of the items collected helped to fill the Pantry's shelves with items that they were very short on. Doug would be so happy with the 375 pounds of food that was collected by the members of the Troop and the parishioners of St. James'. Thank you all again for your continued support of our Troop, and its mission - Sue Gordon, COR/CC, Boy Scout Troop 840.

Fall Festival Photos

Prior to each dinner and festival we need good photos for promoting the event. We currently need good photos of past Fall Festivals. If you have a photo or photos that you would like considered for our postcard and/or poster, please email the digital image to Kelly Richard at akellyrichard@aol.com. If we use your photo we will be sure to include a photo credit with your name.

July Community Assistance Fund

The St. James' Community Assistance Team assisted six families in the month of July in the amount of $1,145 for eviction prevention, a three day stay at a motel for a homeless family, and very large electric bills. We also helped a family with $650 from the South County Churches Energy Assistance Fund. We know that more of our South County neighbors will be struggling with fuel and housing needs come fall and winter. Your generous donations on the first Sunday of the month help us give assistance to our neighbors in need.

Blessing of the Backpacks, August 17th

Blessing of Backpacks will take place on Sunday, August 17th at the 10:00 AM service. Please bring your backpacks (or briefcases or other school/work bags) for a blessing and a tag that you can carry with you.

Sports & Drama Camp Photo Album

You can view photos from the Sports & Drama Camp here: goo.gl/mhmFfX.

Anne Arundel Medical Center's Blood Mobile on August 10th

Please mark your calendar: The Anne Arundel Medical Center's Blood Mobile will be in our parking lot adjacent to St. James' Church on Sunday, August 10th from 9 AM until 1:30 PM; click here for the event flier. Summer is traditionally a very slow time for blood donations but a time of great demand for blood. To schedule an appointment, please simply call the Parish Office OR go to www.mysignup.com/stjames. They accommodate one or two people every ten minutes.

Children’s Breakfast Club - Volunteers Needed!

The Breakfast Club will be packing breakfasts again on Wednesday evenings at 6 PM throughout the summer. The ministry feeds approximately 100 school age children who might not otherwise have breakfast in the summer. If you are interested in helping or would like to learn more about it, contact Nola Myers at noreme@verizon.net. We are looking for volunteers to help pack. It takes about 30-45 minutes and we meet at Mt. Zion. The dates we need help are: July 23 & 30 and August 6 & 13.

AARP Smart Driver Class

The New, Improved, AARP Smart Driver Class will be offered at St. James' Parish on Wednesday, July 30, from 10 AM to 3 PM. This four hour class is designed for drivers 50+. This class reviews new driving practices, rules, and identifies NEW rules of the road. It offers proven strategies to help maintain safe driving practices. A certificate is issued at the end of the class. You may also qualify for a discount on your car insurance, depending on your insurance. The cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Seating is limited and registration is required. Please call St. James' Parish at 410-867-2838 to register by Monday, July 28. There will be a one-hour lunch break. Please arrive few minutes early to complete the registration process.

Stepping into the Future, starting July 8th 6 PM to 7 PM

Anne Arundel County Community Action Agency's Annapolis Youth Services Bureau in partnership with St. James' Parish announce Stepping into the Future: a group for youth that explores emotional / anger management, communication, self-esteem, and decision making. Sessions are led by Andrew Mueller (AYSB). The group is open to youth age 11-18 (participants may be grouped by age level), and will meet Tuesdays 6 PM to 7 PM starting on July 8th. To register, contact either St. James' Parish at 410-867-2838 or Phyllis Collins (AYSB) at 410-626-1800.

Library Committee trip to Charleston and Savannah, September 29-October 2, 2014

The Library Committee is sponsoring a trip to Charleston, SC & Savannah, GA 4 days – 3 nights Lodging, Sept 29 to Oct 2 - $524.00 per person (double occupancy). Package includes: 3 nights lodging, 3 breakfast, Southern-style buffet lunch at Paula Deen's Lady & Sons, 2 full course dinners, guided tours of Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC, Charleston City Market, tour of Ft. Sumter, Magnolia Plantation Home & Nature Tram Tour, Charleston Harbor Cruise, River Street District, Souvenir gift, luggage handling, All taxes and meal gratuities and motor coach transportation. Cancellation insurance available upon request. For information and reservations contact: Lillie Barrett (301-855-7829).

June Community Assistance Fund

The St. James' Community Assistance Fund team met with nine families in June and helped them in the total amount of $2,617.01 along with an additional amount of $509.67 from the South County Churches Energy Assistance Group (SCCEAG). This assistance was given for eviction prevention, electric and propane bills and gift cards for food and gasoline. A very good piece of news came our way in June: All Hallows Episcopal Parish, although not part of the South County network, has indicated willingness to join with St. James' Parish in our Community Assistance efforts by helping to fund the program. The Community Assistance team appreciates and thanks you for your continued support for our neighbors in need.

Weird Animals VBS Photo Album

You can view photos from the Weird Animals VBS here: goo.gl/QHkQJz.

Summer Note Reading Course

Anyone seriously interested in the Annual Note Reading Course should contact St. James' Parish Music Director, Michael Ryan at mryansings@verizon.net. Class begins in mid July for 5 weeks, 2 evenings per week, all work is done in class, $10 for workbook.

Sing with the Summer Choir!

Summer Choir begins on June 22nd at the 10 AM service. Just show up in church at 9 AM for rehearsal, and you pass the audition! Everyone is invited to participate - either on a regular or a one-time basis. It's a great way to try out the choir and see if it's a good fit for you in the fall season... and, it's fun! Everyone is welcome to participate!

Visitation by Bishop Sutton & Confirmation, June 15th

Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton, Bishop of Maryland, will visit St. James' Parish on June 15th at the 8 AM and 10 AM services. During the 10 AM Eucharist the Bishop will confirm the following: Carol Leeann Dinges, Cody James Dorsey, Bryan Arthur Howl, Martha Grace Claire Howl, Caroline Emily Miller, Kenneth Jon Ranson, and Bonnie Bunnell Taylor. Also, Joanne Claire Healey Howl will reaffirm her baptismal vows.

Community Assistance Fund

In May the St. James' Community Assistance Fund assisted eleven families in the amount of $2,336.52. The assistance was given for eviction prevention, electric, propane and an unusual one for emergency dental care to prevent someone from losing their job. Often medical issues put people on the edge into financial crisis and we saw several of these in the month of May. The Community Assistance team appreciates and thanks you for your support for our neighbors in need.

Donate a Tree in the New Cemetery

The Cemetery Committee plans to plant 15 Natchez White Crape Myrtles along the road of the new cemetery and 3 Southern Magnolias on the cemetery's southern border. Please consider donating a tree in memorium. Each 10-12 foot Crape Myrtle costs $525 and each 12-14 foot Magnolia costs $995. Your donation includes a Corian dedication plaque as well as planting and care for the tree.

For additional information or to donate a tree, please contact Jim Cheston at cemetery@stjameslothian.com.

Christian Formation - A Year in Review 2013-2014

Please take a moment and read Dawn's+ summary of a very full year of Christian Formation at St. James': stjameslothianyouth.blogspot.com/2014/06/christian-formation-year-in-review.html

Children’s Breakfast Club - Volunteers Needed!

Outreach is looking for volunteers to help local area children receive breakfast this summer. We are working with Mt. Zion and other area churches to help pack brown bag breakfasts for school aged children living in Lyon's Creek and Patuxent Mobile Park. We are asking for 1 hour of your time to help pack on Wednesday evenings. Ideally, 3 to 4 people would meet at a house on Mt. Zion's property (on Bayard Road near the circle off of Rt. 2) to assemble the pre-packaged food. The program serves approximately 100 children per day. If you can help on any of the eight Wednesdays listed below, please contact Nola Meyers at noreme@verizon.net or Shay Hall at 410-507-1165. For additional information, contact Nola or Shay, or check the Outreach bulletin board in the Parish Hall.

June 26,
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30,
August 6, 13

Breakfast Club is also looking for new or gently used children's books to pass along to the children receiving the meals. Feel free to place a book or two in the paper bag located in the foyer between the parish hall and education building. We welcome all hands!

Earn for St. James' when you shop at Amazon

Earn for St. James' Christian Formation through our current eScrip program when you shop at Amazon. If you follow the Amazon link on this post, or on the stjameslothian.com footer, or bookmark and follow the URL goo.gl/lEhsh7, then St. James' earns a percentage of whatever you purchase at Amazon.

Parish Picnic, Pentecost Sunday, June 8th

The Vestry of St. James' Parish invites you to join them on Pentecost Sunday, June 8th, to celebrate the birthday of the Christian Church! Regarded as the start of the church's mission to the world, Pentecost occurs on the Sunday 50 days after Easter and is the festival when Christians celebrate the Gift of the Holy Spirit.

A special 10 AM combined service will be held followed by a potluck picnic on the church grounds. Bring your lawn chairs and a main or side dish to share, and be prepared for a great time! And, remember to wear something red! The Vestry will provide beverages and the birthday cake! There will be games, music, and wonderful fellowship.

For additional information or to volunteer to help, please call Edlu Thom-Harper at 443-550-3109.

No 5:30 PM Service on May 18

There will not be a 5:30 PM service on May 18th due to the Christian Formation Field Trip to the Franciscan Monastery.

Save the Date - Parish Picnic, June 8th

The Vestry of St. James' Parish invites you to join them on Sunday, June 8, to celebrate the birthday of the Christian Church. Pentecost is the festival when Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is celebrated on the Sunday 50 days after Easter. Pentecost is regarded as the birthday of the Christian Church, and the start of the church's mission to the world. We will have a special celebration at the 10 AM combined service followed by a potluck picnic on the church grounds. Bring your lawn chairs and a main or side dish to share and be prepared for a great time! There will be games, music, and wonderful fellowship! The Vestry will provide beverages and the birthday cake! Everyone is invited! Please call Edlu Thom-Harper at 443-550-3109 if you have any questions or would like to help with the planning.

Dummies Dig Down "3D", starting May 6th

After a breathtaking 23 week overview of the Bible following "Bible for Dummies" a keen group of 16 have signed up to continue to dig a little deeper. So we will kick off at 7 PM, Tuesday, May 6th in the Music Room and go for an hour. We are reading in more detail through the Gospel of Mark, using William Barclay's, The Gospel of Mark, The New Daily Study Bible. We hope to supplement that with good discussion, fresh insight, maps, timelines and charts to make the first Gospel written come alive. For more details, contact Nan or Dean Lewis at nanwlewis@gmail.com.

Community Assistance Fund

In April the Community Assistance Fund assisted seven families in the amount of $1,324.82. In addition, we helped two families through the South County Community Energy Assistance Fund in the amount of $1,287.55. This is the joint fund supported by five south county churches including St. James'. The assistance was for eviction prevention and BGE turn-off notices. Currently, Claire Pickart, Paula Davis, Jerrie Bailey, Janet Bruce and Edlu Thom-Harper are part of the Community Assistance Team. If you would like to volunteer as a substitute for summer vacations, please let one of us know and we will include you in the training. We require two people to meet with the clients to evaluate their need for assistance. The Community Assistance Team appreciates your support to help our neighbors in need.

Clothing Ministry Donations - Summer Clothing

Please remember that clean, gently used SUMMER clothes and shoes are needed for the St. James' Parish clothing ministry. Items can be dropped off downstairs in the Christian Education Building. For more information, please contact Taylor Milbradt at tayfm@aol.com. Thanks!

Community Assistance Fund

In March the Community Assistance Fund assisted eight families in the amount of $1,963.29. The assistance was for eviction prevention, electric and propane, gasoline, and Safeway Gift Cards. We work with a network of 5 churches that pools funds to help people with BGE and fuel oil bills that are higher than one church can pay. The Community Assistance Team thanks you for your support on the 1st Sunday as well as the funds received from the Lenten Soup Suppers and the Messiah Sing Along. The generosity of our Parishioners says a lot about who we are in Christ. It is a joy to be able to help our neighbors in need.

Maundy Thursday Potluck, 6:00 PM

Maundy Thursday evening will begin in the Parish Hall with fellowship at 6 PM followed by a potluck dinner at 6:30 PM. Everyone is encouraged to bring a covered dish to the potluck. The Maundy Thursday service will begin at 7:30 PM.

Flower the Cross on Easter Day

Please bring cut flowers to St. James' Church on Easter! After the 9 AM and 11 AM services, the children and youth will "flower" the cross that will be standing outside of the west door of St. James' Church.

St. James' Parish Easter Egg Hunt, 10 AM Easter Day

Children through 5th grade are invited to join in the Annual Parish Easter Egg Hunt in the churchyard on Easter Day beginning at 10 AM. Bring your basket and meet in your church school classroom. Come join in the fun!

Library Committee trip to Monticello, May 13th

The Library Committee is sponsoring a day trip to Monticello (Home of Thomas Jefferson), on Tuesday, May 13, leaving our parking lot at 7:30 AM. The cost will be $76.00, which will include lunch, tour ticket, bus and gratuities. We will be stopping for dinner on the way home; you will be on your own. Please contact Lillie Barrett (301-855-7829) for reservations and questions.

Installing the Columbariums, April 10th

Workers will be installing the two columbariums for the St. James' Cemetery on Thursday, April 10th. Several trucks as well as a hydraulic crane will be arriving shortly after 9 AM and will be utilizing the gravel roadway to enter. We ask you to not utilize the gravel roadway or the asphalt roadways near the installation site. Persons not part of the installation crew must keep a safe distance during the operation at all times.

Lenten Program Session #5, April 9th

Please join us for our 2014 Lenten Program, Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture, session #5:

The Grief of Loss as Divine Judgement

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Soup Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Crosses for Palm Sunday

Crosses for Palm Sunday will be made in the Parish Hall kitchen on Saturday, April 12th at 8:30 AM. Everyone is invited to help!

Distributing Easter Dinners, April 19th - Donations Needed!

St James' Parish and Friendship United Methodist Church will be distributing groceries for Easter dinners on Saturday, April 19th. We hope that you will donate a ham (10-12 pounds each), provide donations for groceries and/or help us with packaging and distribution between 7-11 AM on the Saturday before Easter. This is a great opportunity for young families to help local families in need. Please put your ham in a kitchen refrigerator between April 6 and 16. We will gladly accept donations of peeps or chocolate bunnies to include with each family's groceries! If you have questions, please contact Linda Rines at Linda.Rines@comcast.net.

Food Glorious Food: James Barrett on April 6

James Barrett is the Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage at the Weston Hotel in Annapolis, Maryland. Cultivating his craft in restaurants around the country, James cooking technique is a blend of cooking experiences accumulated throughout the US.

Lenten Program Session #4, April 2nd

Please join us for our 2014 Lenten Program, Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture, session #4:

The Shrill Rhetoric that Breaks Denial

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Soup Supper, 7:30 PM Program

St. James' Clothing Ministry - Spring Clothing

The Clothing Ministry is accepting gently used spring clothing. Also, looking for volunteers to help sort cloths. If you are willing to help please contact, Taylor Milbradt at Tayfm@aol.com with any questions.

Community Assistance Fund

In February the Community Assistance Fund assisted eleven families in the amount of $2,429. Most of the assistance was for electricity, fuel oil and propane due to the very cold weather. Assistance with rent and eviction prevention was also provided. Our funds are currently running low and any contribution from our Parish Family to help the needy in South County would be most welcome. The Community Assistance Team thanks you for your support.

No 5:30 PM Service on March 23rd

There will be NO 5:30 PM service on March 23rd due to the Messiah Sing Along. Please join us for the 2nd Annual Lenten-Easter Messiah Sing-Along at 4:00 PM in St. James' Church.

Food Glorious Food: Katie Moose on March 30

Katie Moose is the author of five cookbooks including two on the Chesapeake Bay, two on New England and "God's Bounty: 365 Days of Inspirational Cooking". With an avid interest in history, Katie will discuss early food and history leading up to the War of 1812.

Lenten Program Session #3, March 26th

Please join us for our 2014 Lenten Program, Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture, session #3:

Moral Coherence in a World of Power, Money and Violence

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Soup Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Adult Forum

Adult Forum meets at 10 AM in the Library. We will discuss a book, The Meaning of Jesus: Two Visions, by Marcus J. Borg and N.T. Wright. This is a book in which the leading liberal and conservative Jesus scholars present the heart of the historical Jesus debate. For those who have always been curious about such questions as: Was Jesus God? Did he intentionally die to redeem humankind? Was he bodily resurrected from the dead? This book gives historical insight into these, and other, issues. Come between the services with coffee in hand and join us for a lively discussion. Contact Dean Lewis for more information.

Lenten Program Session #2, March 19th

Please join us for our 2014 Lenten Program, Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture, session #2:

The Prophets as Uncredentialed Purveyors of Covenant

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Soup Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Food Glorious Food: Patrice and Jim Bourne on March 16

Patrice is a personal chef and an expert in preparing food for challenging dietary needs, the elderly and special occasions. Jim, Patrice's husband, is today's new farmer. He has designed a new clean model for farming which uses no antibiotics or synthetics. Jim and Patrice Bourne are proprietors of "The Lamb's Quarter", a community supported family farm.

Lenten Program Session #1, March 12th

Please join us for our 2014 Lenten Program, Embracing the Prophets in Contemporary Culture, session #1:

Moses, Pharaoh, the Prophets and Us

6:00 PM Fellowship, 6:30 PM Soup Supper, 7:30 PM Program

Hand-painted Wooden Easter Eggs to benefit Outreach Committee Ministries

Once again, Barbara Howard's beautiful hand-painted wooden Easter Eggs will be for sale during the Lenten Dinners and the Coffee Hours during the Lenten Season. Proceeds from the sales, which are offered for $10 each, support the many important ministries of the St. James' Parish Outreach Committee. For additional information, please contact Barbara Howard at kbhoward@comcast.net.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, March 4th

We dodged the worst of the snow and the church parking lots are plowed :). PLEASE JOIN US for dinner 6-8 PM.

Cost: Donations support the Christian Formation Committee programs. Youth (grades 6 - 12) will prepare and serve supper to the community.

Prom Dress Drive 2014

Saturday, April 5th from 9 AM to noon, the YAC (Young Adults in Church) will be giving dresses to young girls in the community who may be in need. The YAC is collecting gently use and cleaned prom style dresses, as well as, accessories and shoes. YAC believes this is a terrific opportunity to recycle prom dresses and to minister to a need in the community. Please drop off your donations in the Parish Hall. If you have no clothes to donate, we are accepting cash donations to help cover the cost of additional dresses, accessories and shoes. If you have any questions, please call St. James' Parish at 410-867-2838.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, March 4th

Fellowship at 6 PM. Dinner 6-8 PM.
Cost: Donations support the Christian Formation Committee programs

Youth (grades 6 - 12) will prepare and serve supper to the community. PLEASE JOIN US !

Worship Survey Results

The Worship & Music Committee thanks everyone who participated in the recent Worship Survey. You can view a summary of results at the following URL: goo.gl/2V8Xz2.

Food Glorious Food

Beginning Sunday, March 16, the Women of St. James' Parish will host "Food Glorious Food" a series of three presentations relating to food. Whether you are interested in how "clean" food is grown and raised in the 21st century, food preparation for challenging diets or special events, delectable recipes or tips from an executive chef, this three part series will be of interest to you. Each presentation will be held in the Parish Hall on Sundays following the 11 o'clock service. Everyone is invited to attend!

Community Assistance Fund

In January the Community Assistance Fund assisted twelve families in the amount of $3,136. Most of the assistance was for electricity, fuel oil and propane due to the very cold weather. Assistance with rent and eviction prevention was also provided. Our funds are currently running low and any contribution from our Parish Family to help the needy in South County would be most welcome. The Community Assistance Team thanks you for your support.

Partners In Care

"Partners In Care (PIC) needs drivers in South County for its Ride Partners program. PIC provides rides for seniors to and from doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and general errands.

For additional information or to volunteer, please contact Don Arthur at donlucyarthur@verizon.net.

Souper Bowl Sunday, February 2nd

On Sunday, February 2nd, millions of Americans will tune in to the Super Bowl football game. Please join young people around the country as they demonstrate God’s love by loving their neighbors through the Souper Bowl of Caring. St. James' Parish Youth will be standing at the doors after the service collecting donations in large soup bowls and will later do a "Supermarket Sweep" to purchase groceries for the SCAN Food Bank. Please support their efforts!

Donations for Charlotte Hall Veterans Home

A box has been placed in the foyer between the offices and the Education Building. We are collecting warm socks, slippers, hats & scarves and gloves for men and women. Also, collecting tennis balls for the bottom of walkers. Items will be picked up at the end of each month by coordinator, Carole McGee Turner, McGee07@comcast.net.

Annual Celebration Thank You

The Vestry agreed that 2014 will celebrate the theme "Year of the Bible". Appreciation was expressed to the three outgoing Vestry members = Mary V. "Ginny" Miles, Janet P. Oakley and Trevor J. Perkins, for their hard work and dedication over their three-year term, and the Interim Junior Warden Calvin Horn who has agreed to remain in office. A great "Thank you" to Senior Warden K. Donald Arthur for his faithful and dedicated service. It was announced that the new Senior Warden is Nancy G. Horkan. The Rector administered the Oath of Office to the new Senior Warden and the three new members of the Vestry, (Gregory K. O. Davis, Thomas K. Hagigh and Linda L. Rines). The Rector expressed appreciation to Dawn+ and Kerry+ for their wonderful gifts and how meaningful it is that there is diversity among all three of the clergy.

Second Sunday Potluck following the 5:30 PM Eucharist

Starting Sunday, February 9th, we will have Second Sunday Potluck following the 5:30pm service. If you feel moved to join in fellowship after the service, please bring your favorite salad, entree, soup, or desert to share. The potluck dinner will begin after the service, from 6:30pm - 7:30pm. The service itself is an informal, "Come As You Are Gathering" for Holy Eucharist. Please join us - this service is designed to meet your need to be in relationship with God through worship. The 45 minute service will be held in St. James' Church.

Volunteers Needed for Youth Sundays

On the second Sunday of the month, the 9:00 AM worship service is designated as Youth Sunday. During this service, the youth of the parish serve as Greeters, Ushers, Readers, and Litanists. We are in need of volunteers for this important and meaningful role in parish life. Those children and youth who volunteer will be trained and ushers will serve with an adult mentor. If you feel your child would be interested in serving, please contact the Rev. Dawn Campbell by e-mail at dawncampbell@stjameslothian.com. You can also click here to sign your child up.

Becoming a Counter

Anyone interested in helping count the offering after the services "becoming a counter" we are really short-handed. Please call Janet or Liz Sutherland at 410-867-2838.