History of Saint James': The Rev. William G. Pendleton

Originally Posted 10/29/2015

Statement recorded in the Parish Register by the Rev. William G. Pendleton, Rector, 1913-1920.

On his departure, Mr. Pendleton, the 9th rector of Saint James’ Church wrote:

“I took charge of Hamilton Parish, Dec. 1, 1913.  Am leaving March 1, 1920 – 6 years and three months ministry in the Parish.  I hope I am leaving the parish in a healthier condition than when I found it.   The new Rectory has been built, which is one of the greatest improvements in the parish.  The rented pew system has been abolished – something that has been sadly needed for years.  The parish is in better financial condition now than ever in its history.  In the N.W.C., $9000 has been pledged on a budget, where as heretofore the parish has seldom raised more than $3500 to $4000

“I have had a most satisfactory work among the young people of Warrenton.  I feel that the Boy Scout work alone was worth my 6 years here.  I have nothing to say but the highest praise for the kindness and loyalty of the people of Warrenton.  We have made many friends and with the deepest regret we leave them.  We do however pray that God, through His Spirit may awaken the adults of St. James to a realization of the need of a deeper spiritual life among many of those who attend her services.  My official acts have been – Baptisms 63, Marriages 26, Burials 43. Confirmed 134 of whom 4 were from Casanova.  Of these 63 were male, 67 female.  76 were of the St. James congregation and 54 from the schools.

“The Vestry has always responded to any appeal for the advancement of the work, and I wish to record my deep appreciation of their loyal support of their rector.  I am only leaving the parish because I feel called to go to a far more important work in God’s Kingdom – that of training the youth along religious lines.

“May God’s blessing rest upon each member of the Parish, and awaken in them a deeper appreciation of the opportunities and privileges of the Church of God.

Affectionately,

W.G. Pendleton, Feb. 25, 1920″