Description: Young people in grades 3-12 assist the clergy and lay ministers during regular Sunday and special services by lighting and extinguishing altar candles; carrying torches and cross; receiving offertory gifts; and other assigned duties.

Participants: 21

2025 highlights: We welcomed four new acolytes and two adult assistant leaders. We have continued to intentionally pair newer acolytes with more experienced ones so they can learn “in real time.” We also finalized a checklist for adult leaders to use before, during, and after services that outline tasks they need to complete to prepare acolytes for the service. 

Looking ahead: It has been several years since Saint James’ participated in the National Acolyte Festival at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. The tentative date is Oct. 10, 2026. We would like to attend this year if there is sufficient interest from our acolytes and support from church leadership.

Challenges and needs: Our biggest challenge is attendance. There were only six out of 16 regular Sunday services between September and December 2025 where we had three acolytes serve. We will start sending out additional weekly reminders to those scheduled each Sunday, but will also cease to schedule acolytes who are chronically absent. With 21 volunteers, there should be enough to cover each Sunday with each acolyte serving about once every six to seven weeks. No acolyte is asked to serve more than once per month, although several volunteer for more Sundays. However, during this adjustment period, there may be a few Sundays where there are no acolytes on the schedule. In the next 12 to 16 months, we will also need to find a permanent adult leader(s), as Jill Lacey will step down in May 2027. 

Other: We welcome any young person in grades 3-12 who would like to assist in the Sunday services, build confidence and leadership skills, and serve as role models for other youth in the congregation.

— Jill Lacey
jnlacey1@comcast.net
703-200-7686

Description: We prepare the altar for all church services.  We care for all linens and brass and silver used in services.

Participants: 28

2025 highlights: We assured smooth running of all services, both for the church and school. 

We established an Altar Guild Leaders’ Board of six members, with a term of two years on the board. Two leaders covered January through April, two covered May through August, and two covered September through December. We established a clearer process for Altar Guild duties for weddings and funerals and coordinated with the Bereavement Team to make sure that both events run smoothly for families and attendees. 

We held the annual Altar Guild meeting and luncheon in January 2025 with good attendance. 

Looking ahead: For 2026, three additional “leaders in training” have been recruited, so 2026 will have six “head leaders”, plus three leaders in training. At the end of 2026, all six of the original leaders will have served two years and will rotate off the board. For 2027, the three leaders in training will become head leaders, and three more members will be recruited to be leaders in training, to comprise a board of six.  Going forward with 2027, three head leaders will rotate off each year, and three new members recruited as leaders in training. Thus, there will always be an experienced head leader serving with a leader in training and everyone serves a two-year term. 

Our 2026 meeting and luncheon is scheduled for Feb. 7.

Challenges and needs: As our members move or retire from service, we continue to need new and dedicated members. Come join our guild!

— Joanne Charles
757-373-6967
jcharles1331@gmail.com

— Bonnie Zacherle
bztoymaker@gmail.com
540-680-2687

Description: We do pre-baptism preparation, including reaching out to candidates’ families, setup, meet and greet, and clean up.

Participants: 2

2025 highlights: Sixteen people were baptized, including 15 children and one adult. Anyone who is baptized is automatically a member of Saint James’. Nine of the parents of those baptized became members by transferring their membership to Saint James’.

Looking ahead: To expand our ministry, Saint James’ Episcopal School could inform families during orientation that if they wish to have their child baptized, we are available to provide support and guidance.

Challenges and needs: Our need is to continue communications with other ministries including Altar Guild, Café and ushers.

Other: We feel it is our honor to be able to assist and welcome the newly baptized into the household of God.

— Sue Brittle
ssnbrittle@yahoo.com
540-351-7550

— Lynne Walker
b.lynne.walker@gmail.com
540-846-7820

Description: We repair homes for people in our community who own their home, do not have the means to make the repairs, and who do not plan to move from their homes. We also bring Saint James’ people together to build community, learn and share their skills, and build trust with the people we serve.

Participants: 25-40 in the past couple of years

2025 highlights: We helped a couple who both have major health issues to do significant needed repairs on their home. These repairs allow them to have a healthier, safer home environment. We will be going back with a small crew of two to do one more repair that needed further attention in January or February.

Looking ahead: We would like to continue to seek out partner organizations who can identify community needs.

Challenges and needs: Identifying need without going directly to the community.

— Dorothy Smith
fineart111@aol.com
540-219-9001

Description: Children’s Church takes place during the 10:15 service and is created especially for our youngest worshipers. Children in pre-K through fifth grade explore age-appropriate lessons that reflect the Gospel reading shared in the main service. Nursery care is available for infants through pre-K, offering a safe and nurturing space to play while parents participate in worship.

Participants: 15-20 children each Sunday

2025 highlights: This past year, Children’s Church saw strong attendance, with a growing number of children participating each week, and many new families. We were excited to add music to Children’s Church — thank you, Jesse! And it was especially meaningful to hear the children sing the offertory anthem during the Christmas Eve pageant. Throughout the year, children became more familiar with Bible stories and Sunday morning routines, helping them feel more confident and connected to the church.

Challenges and needs: Looking to add additional Children's Church teachers.

Other: I’m so very grateful to all volunteer teachers who continue to serve in this ministry on Sunday mornings and to our nursery attendants who come faithfully each Sunday morning to provide a place for children to play while parents attend adult formation, Café and church. A special thank you to Flora Duvall for joining me in a leadership role in children's church this year.

— Jen Taylor
jennifer.taylor@saintjameswarrenton.org
703-298-7084

Description: Creation Care seeks to find a deeper understanding of how our faith intersects with the natural world around us. We look for how God is calling us to be good stewards of the Creation that he entrusted us with.

Participants: 4-6

2025 highlights: We handed out native seeds and ways to care for the environment on Earth Day in April. Celebrate Creation Photo Contest in September had over double the amount of participants and photo submissions thanks in part to digitizing the photo submission process.

Looking ahead: We would like to encourage anyone who has an interest in Creation Care to reach out to us so that we can connect. In years past we did a Rogation Sunday and tree planting ministry called Seedling for Change. I would love to see more volunteers in our ministry to revitalize those programs.

Challenges and needs: Our group is small, but we make up for it in passion and dedication. However, we could always welcome more people into our ministry. Please let me know if you want to learn more.

— Flora Duvall
fwallace@mail.umw.edu
540-270-5579

Description: EfM helps participants in the program develop an understanding of their faith through the study of Scripture, church history and theology, and by bringing those influential voices into dialogue with the events of everyday life. The program runs from September through June.

Participants: 8

2025 highlights: Mentorship transitioned from Joanne Charles to Connie Chintall. Our group includes members from our parish and from St. Paul's Haymarket.

Looking ahead: We are looking for new members to join our group in September.

Challenges and needs: Three members complete the four year program in June. We need at least two new members to meet the minimum required by the University of the South, which coordinates this ministry across the U.S. and in select foreign countries.

— Connie Chintall
cmchintall@gmail.com
540-454-4507

Description: ECW is for women of all ages to be in fellowship and friendship with one another. ECW typically meets on the first Thursday of each month and welcomes new faces.

Participants: 30

2025 highlights: ECW enjoyed a wonderful lineup of events that brought our community together in fellowship and fun. We gathered for a delightful brunch at Cast Iron, and later hosted a French wine tasting led by our favorite resident wine extraordinaire, Greg Arthaud. We celebrated in style at our Kentucky Derby party, and our ever-popular Sip ‘n’ Shop at Latitudes was a favorite as always (Thank you Kelsey!!). We also explored local favorites with outings to Barking Rose and 4J’s breweries. Each event offered a chance to connect, laugh, and deepen our friendships throughout the year.

Other: We look forward to continuing to gather in faith and friendship, supporting one another along the way. We’re excited to welcome new members to our ministry! If you’re interested in joining ECW, please reach out to Jen or Margy, and we’ll add you to our email list. The more, the merrier. We can’t wait to see you!

— Jen Taylor
jennifer.taylor@saintjameswarrenton.org
703-298-7084

— Margy Thomas
mweastham@gmail.com
540-222-1539

Description: On the first Thursday of each month, Saint James’ parishioners provide a complete (entrees, salads, rolls, desserts) to serve 16 or more volunteers at the Fauquier Free Clinic.

Participants: 14

2025 highlights: The majority of volunteer doctors, nurses, dentists, hygienists, mental health workers and support staff come directly from their “day jobs,” leaving no time for dinner. We provide an opportunity for them to grab a little something to eat, as they provide services to those who need their care.

Looking ahead: The Fauquier Free Clinic has a very specific goal, that being to support the volunteer staff by providing dinner. There really is nothing we can do differently or no way to expand the program, especially since in some months, we barely meet our commitment. However, if there are parishioners who are reluctant to sign up because they don’t know what the Free Clinic is or what it does, I will be happy to arrange a tour of the clinic.

Challenges and needs: As the Free Clinic ministry enters its 30th consecutive year, we are in need of additional “cooks,” especially new and younger members. Although we had two more participants than last year, they represent the norm of a newcomer — someone who signs up for one month only. The majority of supporters of this program have been involved for twenty years or more. At some point, which appears to be coming sooner rather than later, they will “retire,” and without others to take their places, this most worthy and valuable outreach program will end. 

— Babs Alliman
allimanb@msn.com
540-364-1863 (h)
540-878-3067 (c)

Description: Saint James’ parishioners volunteer for the Fauquier Community Coalition’s Firewood Initiative for two hours on the second Saturday of each month. During that time, they split, stack, load — and sometimes even deliver — donated firewood to low-income Fauquier County residents. 

Participants: 5-10 each month

2025 highlights: I'm very excited that we were able to restart participation in this ministry during 2025.  We have a committed group of regular volunteers who show up each month to work to help others in our community. We hope to increase participation in 2026!

Looking ahead: We would like to increase participation in this program, and perhaps find ways that Saint James’ can add to its impact.

Challenges and needs: This ministry has minimal costs and needs. We need only to appreciate those who participate in this program. They gladly donate their time and efforts in both heat and cold!

— Judy Williams
jwilliams0721@gmail.com
540-729-2743

Description: The Flower Guild is responsible for providing flower arrangements for the altar and chapel, as well as floral offerings for special occasions like weddings and funerals taking place in the church. The Garden Guild, an offshoot of the Flower Guild, helps maintain the courtyard garden and the containers outside of the church. 

Participants: 14

2025 highlights: The guild arranged for several weddings and funerals in addition to weekly Sunday services. Outdoor planters were changed with the seasons.

Looking ahead: We would like to expand and enhance the courtyard garden to include flowers and greens that can be used for future arrangements.

Challenges and needs: The Guild is always looking for new members to join us in this gratifying endeavor.

— Bonnie Zacherle
bztoymaker@gmail.com
540-680-2687

Description: We are in charge of weekly church food events. We also take care of a number of special events.

Participants: About 40-50 volunteers, 200 event attendees

2025 highlights: We provided Café and Coffee Hour each Sunday. We also organized and staffed special events like Mardi Gras, receptions after the Easter Vigil and the evening of Lessons and Carols,  Plus, Greg hosted wine and meal pairings. We also helped support the church picnic.

Looking ahead: One important possibility is to develop a consistent food outreach to the local homeless shelter.

Challenges and needs: We are blessed with capable and reliable volunteers. One ongoing challenge is maintenance of the kitchen equipment and supplies.

— Greg Arthaud
gjarthaud@yahoo.com
540-272-6696

— Mariann Lynch
mariann.lynch@gmail.com
540-349-4969

Description: These small gatherings are a wonderful way to build new connections and deepen our sense of community at Saint James’.

Participants: About 65

2025 highlights: Most groups have met multiple times and have enjoyed fellowship, food and fun!

Looking ahead: We believe God is calling our Foyer Groups to move beyond simple fellowship meals toward deeper, more intentional community-building. We hope to expand participation, especially among newcomers, and create spaces where people can share their stories, form lasting friendships, and experience Christ’s presence in everyday conversation. Our goal is to make Foyers a true ministry of welcome and belonging within Saint James’.

Challenges and needs: Our main challenge is encouraging consistent participation and helping new members feel comfortable joining groups they may not know well. We also need more hosts willing to open their homes or coordinate gatherings, as well as clear communication to connect participants throughout the year. Finally, we hope for continued parish support and prayer as we seek to make Foyers a welcoming, vibrant part of Saint James’ community life.

— Bené Giglio
bene.giglio@saintjameswarrenton.org
703-447-0818

Description: Greeters are present at all services to greet and welcome all who attend. Greeters hand out bulletins, give directions, answer questions, and invite everyone to Coffee Hour or Café.

Participants: 21

2025 highlights: The ministry charged its format to meet the needs of attendees. There is now a greeter stationed at the bell tower entrance, and one at the Side Chapel entrance.

Looking ahead: We would like to see this ministry grow and add several more members. The ministry will continue to welcome and greet all attendees, the main purpose of the ministry.

Challenges and needs: One main challenge recruiting new members. Our needs remain simple and have not changed. A stack of bulletins gets us started on our mission to welcome and serve.

— Toni Shreve
toniandjims@comcast.net
540-905-5460

Description: Parish Health Ministry volunteers respond to any health care needs during church activities and offer health care advice as appropriate to one's scope. If desired, volunteers write articles to promote wellness for parishioners. Additionally, two instructors teach CPR classes.

Participants: 2

2025 highlights: The CPR classes certified 110 people. Ruth Fugee, who had been the primary director of the CPR classes, passed that responsibility to Megan Fay. 

Looking ahead: Now that I (Ruth) have replaced myself as the primary director of CPR classes, I plan to query the parish on what health needs they have — such as blood pressure screenings. I'd like a stronger connection to the prayer list to help Parish Health Panel members reach out to struggling parishioners.

Challenges and needs: A challenge is engaging people who join the ministry but do not contribute any time during the year.

— Ruth Fugee
ruth.fugee@gmail.com
540-326-5940

— Megan Fay
meganfay4@gmail.com
703-216-4892

Description: Learning Starts Early Inc. is a 501(c)(3) foundation that has its roots in ministry at Saint James’. LSE is committed to preparing every preschool child in Fauquier County to meet challenges in kindergarten and beyond.

Participants: Six Saint James’ parishioners serve as “reading buddies” at Head Start, one of LSE’s signature programs. Many parishioners volunteered to help with the Gobble, Gobble, Run or Wobble 5k fundraiser in November. Five parishioners serve on the LSE board.

2025 highlights: LSE provided tuition assistance to at-risk preschoolers at local preschools. We partnered with Fauquier FRESH, Foundation First and Fauquier County Public Schools to create a kindergarten readiness event at the Bealeton Public Library, providing free books and hands-on activity kits for preschools and parents. LSE funded speech therapy at a local preschool for at-risk children with speech and language delays. LSE provided volunteer “reading buddies” for nine Head Start classrooms throughout Fauquier County. We also partnered with Fauquier FRESH to create summer programs, provide books to preschoolers through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, and provide take-home books for the children at Head Start.

Challenges and needs: LSE will continue to need volunteers to become Head Start “reading buddies,” as well as volunteers to assist with the 2026 Gobble Gobble 5k. Donations are always welcome at learningstartsearly.org.

— Dr. Bob Dart
leakypondfarm@gmail.com
540-270-1393

— Eileen Burgwyn
theburgwyns@comcast.net
540-272-5428

Description: This ministry consists of readers and chalice bearers for all services at Saint James’. 

Participants: 40-45

2025 highlights: Focusing on the 8 a.m. am and 10:15 a.m. Sunday services, all roles were filled throughout the year. We added our youngest member to the roster, Thomas Foley. We also held a chalice bearer refresher/training session conducted by Anita Sherman, Bob Irving and Father Ben. It was well attended and received.

Looking ahead: New volunteers are always welcome. We would like to add one or two chalice bearers in 2026.

Challenges and needs: Stay healthy, vertical and in good spirits!

Other: This is a robust and caring group. Members are always willing to fill empty slots when asked. All treat their roles with reverence. They are a delight to work for and with throughout the year.

— Anita Sherman
anitajustwrite@gmail.com
540-272-9200

Description: This group gathers at church on Saturday mornings to read and discuss the Bible.

Participants: 5-10

2025 highlights: We read several books of the Bible.

Looking ahead: We’ll continue reading the Bible.

— Jason Blandford
blandfordjason@gmail.com
703-984-9859

Description: We provide a chance for men associated with Saint James' to socialize and have fun.

Participants: 25-40

2025 highlights: We had two events in 2025, in May and September. Both events were held at Barking Rose Brewery and featured Matt Rose’s wonderful beer, with grilled foods and sides.

Looking ahead: We hope to continue these get-togethers quarterly. Our next one is planned for Friday, Feb. 27 in the Parish Hall. Expect dinner, libations and trivia.

Challenges and needs: We invite more men to come hang out with us.

— Greg Arthaud
gjarthaud@yahoo.com
540-272-6696

— Matt Rose
matt@barkingrose.com
703-350-9733

Description: The Saint James' Music Ministry serves the members of this parish and community to provide music for liturgy and concert. By the training of singers and instrumentalists of all ages and backgrounds we give glory to God through music as we lead worship.

Participants: 55 total (18 in the adult choir, 9 in handbells, 8 in the church band, ~20 in the Children’s Church Choristers)

2025 highlights: Under the leadership of Jesse Ratcliffe, which began in September, the music ministry has begun to solidify itself as a collaborative and expansive ministry of Saint James'. A few special moments include a Festival Eucharist for All Saints Day; a musical partnership with our friends at First Baptist Church, carol singing at the Christmas Market, and a robust service of Lessons and Carols. Of particular note is the development of a children's chorus in tandem with Jen Taylor and all the teachers in the Christian Formation ministry.

Looking ahead: We hope to continue to nurture the musicianship of our parish musicians; explore more of our musical heritage (Choral Evensong, Compline, Festival Eucharists, Celtic, Taize, etc); and reach further in the community to engage with other churches and musicians.

Challenges and needs: Adult Choir & Church Band: There's always room for singers and instrumentalists with an open mind and open heart. Music literacy for vocalists is not required but is an asset. 

Handbells: We would like to expand our forces to ring our full complement of bells — the ability to read music is necessary, but training sessions are available upon request.

Children's Chapel Choristers: Prayerful encouragement of these young singers is vital to this group as they learn to express their faith through song. 

Instruments: Continued financial support of the music ministry to allow for the continued maintenance of the piano and organ and the refurbishment of our handbells.

Other: If you're interested in any of the music ensembles of SJEC, please contact Jesse Ratcliffe.

— Jesse Ratcliffe
music@saintjameswarrenton.org
540-347-4342

Participants: 2, down from 5

2025 highlights: Members of the Refugee Ministry met two or three times in early 2025 and communicated frequently via email. Unfortunately, the declining membership necessitated a decision to place the Refugee Ministry “on hold” until a future date when more members could add to the work of the group. 

Our first assigned Afghan family of four moved to Bealeton and actually purchased a townhome. One of the daughters, Rana, is now married with one baby and lives with her husband’s family in Haymarket. Our ministry team gave a baby shower for Rana in June. The other three members are all working and the younger daughter, Sana, is working and studying at Northern Virginia Community College. Their son, Samim, was reunited with the family in late 2024 and has legal status as an asylum seeker. He has been awaiting a work authorization for one year and has recently been forced by ICE to wear an ankle bracelet, and his asylum processing is on hold indefinitely. He does have an attorney but his status is very precarious and of course, he could be deported at any time. Members of our ministry group still keep in touch with this family. 

Our second family of two parents and four children, we found living in a garage in 2024. We found them a home and they are still living in Manassas, awaiting an asylum hearing. They also have legal status and an attorney, but could also be deported at any time. The father is a civil engineer and has been working full time for the Maryland Department of Transportation. His wife is working steadily to learn English and is doing very well. All four children are in public schools in Manassas, have learned English, and are receiving straight-A grades. The father’s income of $55,000 annually does not supply enough to support the family after taxes. Hopefully the mother will soon have a job. The family is considering a move to Maryland for father to be closer to work. Right now his commute is two hours. Our Refugee Ministry is still assisting this family financially with funds from the Boaz bequest and we still keep in touch as much as we can, with occasional social visits. 

Our third family of two parents and one infant son are struggling to get by. They have legal status as asylum seekers, but lost their work authorizations for six months earlier this year. It was restored about four months ago, and Ahmad is working in the appliance repair business. He is supporting his small family with $2,000 monthly wages. Ahmad and Nadia’s little boy, Ayan, is healthy and thriving. He is a very happy little boy. Ahmad and Nadia have an attorney but were recently informed that their court hearing is permanently canceled and they are now at risk of deportation. They try to stay positive but are living in fear at this point. 

Looking ahead: Stay socially connected to our three families and pray for these families. 

Challenges and needs: This ministry is on hold pending further interest and involvement from Saint James’ parishioners.

— Joanne Charles   
jcharles1331@gmail.com  
757-373-6967 (c) 
540-364-2989 (h)

— Cathy Byrne 
catheeb.cb2@gmail.com
703-314-2611(c)
540-359-6110 (h)

Description: Saint James' Episcopal School (SJES) is the largest ministry of Saint James' Church. We offer intentionally low student to teacher ratios for preschool 2 through grade 5 in a nurturing, faith-based environment. Our goal is to equip students with the skills to do well and the moral compass to do good.

Participants: 202 students, 51 staff members

2025 highlights: In 2025, Saint James’ Episcopal School continued to invest thoughtfully in both our campus and our programs, strengthening the student experience inside and outside the classroom. Playground upgrades enhanced safety and expanded opportunities for active play, collaboration, and outdoor learning—an essential part of daily life at Saint James’.

This year also marked an important milestone as we earned Green School designation, recognizing our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Through hands-on learning and daily practices, students were empowered to care for God’s creation in meaningful, age-appropriate ways.

Our academic and enrichment programs continued to grow as well, with initiatives such as Little Stewards gardening program for preschoolers, FOSS science for pre-kindergarteners, and expanded auxiliary offerings fostering curiosity, responsibility, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Together, these accomplishments reflect a year of steady progress rooted in our mission to educate the whole child.

Challenges and needs: As we look ahead to 2026-2027, the School’s primary challenges center on sustainability, capacity, and care for the people who make this ministry possible. Like many small, mission-driven schools, we continue to balance financial accessibility for families with the rising costs of providing a high-quality education. Tuition assistance remains an important part of our mission and securing resources to support this work is an ongoing need. Another significant challenge is supporting and retaining excellent faculty and staff. Our teachers are the heart of this ministry and we are increasingly mindful of the need for competitive compensation, professional growth opportunities, and structures that support their well-being and vocation.

Finally, as enrollment interest grows and our program evolves, we are attentive to the need for thoughtful use of space, outdoor learning areas, and facilities that support both academic excellence and the developmental needs of children. Continued collaboration and partnership with the parish will be essential as we discern how best to steward our shared campus and resources.

— Stacey Irvin
stacey.irvin@saintjamesepiscopalschool.org
540-347-3855

Description: Our ministry team of ushers participates in every service assisting parishioners and visitors, recording service attendance, conducting the service offertory, and directing worshipers during the Holy Eucharist.

Participants: 11-14

2025 highlights: We enjoy those Sundays when our students from Saint James' Episcopal School undertake usher duties.

Challenges and needs: We would like to increase our numbers, and we invite our fellow parishioners to join us in this vital, fulfilling ministry.

Other: We gratefully acknowledge the willingness of parishioners to assist us with bringing up the elements during the offertory. Please let us know if you would be willing to assist with this function.

— George Burgwyn
theburgwyns@comcast.net
540-272-0363

— Charles Brinkman
brinkchsue@comcast.net
540-347-3201 (h)
540-422-3704 (c)

Description: The Vestry is the elected governing board that acts as the legal representative for the parish.  This includes managing its business and financial affairs, supporting the rector and ensuring the church's mission and property are maintained.

Participants: 12

2025 highlights: Thanks to the generous giving of the congregation, we were able to accomplish the goals we set out in our annual retreat. Our church is in solid financial shape and growing thanks to our wonderful rector, staff and numerous volunteers.

Looking ahead: Our goal is to continue growing the church, being fiscally responsible and ensuring that the needs of our community are being met.

Challenges and needs: Saint James’ will always rely on the willingness of our congregation to support the church through the donation of their time, talent and treasure.  We feel truly blessed to have so many people hearing God's call to be involved, and we would love to have more!

Other: As senior warden, I appreciate all the work the Vestry has done this year to ensure that our church (and school) is thriving and that we have such exceptional leadership in place moving forward.

— Patrick Heijmen
seniorwarden@saintjameswarrenton.org
540-222-4005

Description: The Video Ministry promotes Saint James’ through livestreaming on YouTube of the 10:15 Sunday services, special events, school events, and funerals as requested. All streams are archived on YouTube. Members of this ministry support the A/V activities of both the church and the school and assemble various video segments to produce a video service and other videos when in-church services were not possible

Participants: 3

2025 highlights: 

— Continued use of iPhone to live broadcast outdoor portion of Easter Vigil.

— 13,300 views of streamed services (12,500 in 2024) 

— 90,000 minutes of watch time (5% decrease from 2024)

— 714 subscribers (up from 663 in 2024)

— Videos viewed in US and Canada

— 70 videos livestreamed and three videos recorded and uploaded (all church and school Christmas events other than Blue Christmas service)

— 1,351 videos archived on YouTube since streaming began (206,300 total views)

— Of these, 773 were livestreamed and 578 were recorded and uploaded

— Used portable professional grade video camera to record and selectively stream events outside of main church, such as school plays in the Parish Hall

Looking ahead: We will continue to adapt and adjust to new equipment and discover full capabilities, and review audio equipment for needed replacements.

Challenges and needs: Due to increased demand will look for one additional person to add to team.

— Bob Irving
bob.irving@saintjameswarrenton.org
540-905-9320

Description: This adult study forum meets weekly on Tuesday mornings from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Reception Room at Saint James’.

Participants: 18

2025 highlights: The Wisdom Seekers discussed several books which are interspersed with videos from The Great Courses series. They also went on a couple of field trips, including Shrine Mont and the National Cathedral, as well as a tea at the Crest Hill Tea Room in The Plains.

Looking ahead: There are additional field trips planned, perhaps to the monastery in Berryville, as well as a growing list of future books to discuss. 

Challenges and needs: Going into 2026, membership will be held at 18. Discussions are most effective when 10 to 12 people are present. The group is very happy gathering in the Reception Room, which lends itself to engaging and relaxed conversations.

Other: It has been my privilege to serve as facilitator of the Wisdom Seekers for the past several years. It has morphed to a place of sanctuary for many members. The connections are wonderful and I believe the Wisdom Seekers are an asset to Saint James’ reflecting the spirit of discovery and spiritual growth among its members. Many of the members are active in other ministries at the church.

— Anita Sherman
anitajustwrite@gmail.com
540-272-9200

Description: Youth group is for our middle and high school students! We meet on Sunday evenings, weekly for high school and every other week for middle school. These gatherings offer a welcoming space for teens to explore their faith, build relationships with peers and adult leaders, and grow spiritually. Each meeting includes games, dinner, and time to connect, whether catching up, reflecting on life events, or discussing current topics.

Participants: 30

2025 highlights: This year our middle and high school youth group has been a vibrant and growing community, with strong weekly attendance and many students regularly participating in gatherings. We were especially grateful for the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Hurley, Virginia, where teens served others, deepened their faith, and strengthened their friendships. Overall, youth group continues to be a welcoming space for students to connect, explore their beliefs, and support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Other: Very much looking forward to our ski trip (Feb. 20-22) and high school mission trip this summer (June 15-20). Many thanks to all of the volunteer leaders who dedicate Sunday evenings to our youth — Coy, Toly, Kate, Margy, Chris, Ryan and Father Ben! We couldn't do this without you!

— Jen Taylor
jennifer.taylor@saintjameswarrenton.org
703-298-7084