Pastoral
Caregivers
Members of the Caregivers ministry meet usually on the third Tuesday of the month to discuss, assess and pray about current caregiving situations. Confidentiality is essential in this ministry. As needed, members make phone contact or visit those in need. They are prayerful people who are drawn to come alongside a member of the parish who is going through a time of crisis. Full members of the team would be required to commit two to three hours a month, including attending the monthly meeting. Members are appointed following an interview.
Prayer Chain
Prayer Chain members commit to pray daily for the needs of members of St. James and their families and friends, upon request. Prayer Chain members have a zeal for intercessory prayer, are strongly convicted that prayer makes a difference, are committed to praying with persistence and discipline, and have an enduring faith that God honours and responds to the prayers of those who call upon His name. Members are comfortable working behind the scenes in this "hidden" ministry for the congregation.
Prayer Team
The Prayer Team is available at most services to pray with members of the community either during the communion and/or after the service. Members pray in response to the person's request. People may also be encouraged to come for prayer in response to a word of encouragement or a prompting by the Holy Spirit. The Prayer Team may pray for the Lord's blessing, healing, comfort, wisdom and understanding. The Team meets regularly for prayer, discussions, and training.
Alpha and Omega
The Alpha and Omega ministry is privileged to serve the families of St. James through many stages of their Christian journey: at the time of a birth (an altar carnation and card) and at Baptism and Confirmation (prayer support and a card). We also offer support and comfort to families at the time of bereavement by providing receptions after funerals and memorial services.
Intercessors
A small group meets every Tuesday and Thursday morning at the church for worship-based prayers and to intercede for the parish leadership and family, the wider church and the nations of the world. St. Augustine sums up the nature of intercession as a two-fold process: "Without God, we cannot. Without us, God will not." In John 17:6-26, Jesus models the intercession, His concerns, and His heart for His people. He taught us all to pray for God's kingdom come, God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven. He always lives to intercede for those who come to God through Him and invites us to join Him "to watch and pray" and intercedes "for everyone- for kings and all those in authority."
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