Our Values

The values noted below encompass the tradition of St. James and continue to provide us with a sense of the identity of our community. Most of these values have been explicitly cherished for many years. We believe that these ten points are a good summary of who we are, or at least who we hope to become. While not a complete or perfect summary, the Pastors, Wardens and Parish Council have agreed that this statement is our working document.

As we live out these foundational values, we can be a healthy church, able to share the good news of Jesus in word and deed, out of God’s love for all people.

1. We highly value the revelation and authority of God expressed in Holy Scripture, as the basis of our community life. The historic creeds summarize our core beliefs.
2. We desire to live out our theology in practical ways that reveal and demonstrate the historic Christian faith. We desire to enable ourselves and others to:
   • Receive the Father’s Love, and the Spirit’s empowering.
   • Experience the joy of repentance and forgiveness.
   • Make an initial and ongoing commitment to follow Jesus. 
   • Know the privilege and power of prayer.
   • Seek God’s will for the wholeness of body, soul, and spirit.
   • Live lives of holiness.
   • Be aware of and engage in the spiritual battle.
   • Serve God through his church and in his world. 
3. The work of the Holy Spirit is central to our community life.
4. Liturgy, sacrament and praise are key elements of our corporate worship.
5. Everyone has a place to serve and to minister in the community (as well as beyond).
6. We are a church that values small group fellowship and ministries.
7. We believe that growing Christians need to engage in spiritual formation and discipleship.
8. We believe in the importance of welcoming & integrating all into the community.
9. We value mentoring others in the faith.
10. We believe in healthy and open relationships that work towards unity in the community.