SUNDAY
January 9, 2022
January 9, 2022
VESTRY NOMINEES
BEN CODDING
Ben Codding has been attending St. James since 2016. He grew up in Decatur and moved to Huntsville after graduating from Auburn. He works as an account manager for a global logistics & supply chain management company.
He and his wife, Amanda, moved to the eastern shore in 2013. They have 2 daughters, Charlotte (8) and Caroline (3). Ben grew up in the Episcopal Church and has served in various capacities over the years. Ben states that if he’s elected, he “looks forward to serving the parishioners of St. James as a member of its vestry.“
Ben Codding has been attending St. James since 2016. He grew up in Decatur and moved to Huntsville after graduating from Auburn. He works as an account manager for a global logistics & supply chain management company.
He and his wife, Amanda, moved to the eastern shore in 2013. They have 2 daughters, Charlotte (8) and Caroline (3). Ben grew up in the Episcopal Church and has served in various capacities over the years. Ben states that if he’s elected, he “looks forward to serving the parishioners of St. James as a member of its vestry.“
TRACY CORTE
Tracy Corte grew up in Fairhope, having moved here when she was 8 years old, which is when her family started to attend St. James Church. In her younger years she participated as an acolyte and in many of the youth programs. She was baptized, confirmed, and later married at St. James.
Tracy is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has a degree in nursing. After working in the medical field for many years; she now works part-time as a buyer/merchandiser and helps with events at a local store. She and her husband, Del, have two grown children, one living and working in Birmingham and the other attending college at Auburn University. Tracy has always been actively involved and volunteered for many years at her children’s school. Now as an empty nester, she wants to have a greater focus on her faith. She wants to learn, actively participate, and desires to be more involved in the St. James community.
Tracy Corte grew up in Fairhope, having moved here when she was 8 years old, which is when her family started to attend St. James Church. In her younger years she participated as an acolyte and in many of the youth programs. She was baptized, confirmed, and later married at St. James.
Tracy is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and has a degree in nursing. After working in the medical field for many years; she now works part-time as a buyer/merchandiser and helps with events at a local store. She and her husband, Del, have two grown children, one living and working in Birmingham and the other attending college at Auburn University. Tracy has always been actively involved and volunteered for many years at her children’s school. Now as an empty nester, she wants to have a greater focus on her faith. She wants to learn, actively participate, and desires to be more involved in the St. James community.
PETER GUILLIARD
Peter Gaillard is 52 years old and was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. He grew up attending All Saints Episcopal Church in Mobile and married Lorie Tomlinson from Fairhope in 1999. They have three children Mac (19), Les (18), and Anne Patton (13). Peter and his family have been living in Fairhope and attending St. James Episcopal Church since 2004.
Peter is the owner of Gaillard Builders, a commercial construction company located in Mobile, Alabama. Peter believes in using his talents and resources by helping local people who are in need by installing new roofs, handicapped ramps, remodeling, or helping with hurricane clean up.
He is currently a board member of the Alabama Wildlife Federation and Coastal Land Trust. Peter wants to be more involved with St. James and would also love to serve the church by being on the vestry.
LAURA JONES
Laura Jones was born in Mobile, Alabama. When her mother remarried, they moved to Point Clear at the end of Laura’s first-grade year. They became members of St. James in Fairhope, Alabama, where Laura was baptized. She was also confirmed here in the seventh grade. Laura married Sam Jones 1in 980 at St. James and their children Bo and Kelly were baptized here in 1984 and 1987 respectively. They moved away for about 15 years where they attended St. Andrew’s in Collierville, TN and St. John’s in Charlotte, NC, and upon returning to Fairhope in 2005, they came back to St. James.
As a member of St. James, Laura currently attends the Monday Night Women’s Bible study. She has also evolved into a volunteer on the wedding committee since the marriage of her daughter at St. James in 2011. This service really comes full circle when the couple returns for the baptism of their children. She also serves on the altar guild, and recently committed to the welcome ministry, as a greeter. She attended the last Cursillo #165. Laura states that this was a life life-changing event for her, and she would like to serve on staff in the future. Over the years she has also taught Sunday school, been in bible studies, co-chaired VBS, served as a LEM/chalice bearer, hospitality, coffee hour, meal team, and assisted with EYC.
Laura is a registered nurse by profession, which she feels is a ministry in and of itself. She has been allowed to care for people in the most vulnerable times in their lives. Laura states, “I have received more from my patients than I have ever given.“
Laura enjoys our church community and wishes to continue to contribute through outreach and increasing our church member involvement as we return to worship in person. She prays we return to our pre-covid status, as we were “on fire.” Laura states that if elected, she would “like to be a part of this renewal movement in church activities.”
Laura Jones was born in Mobile, Alabama. When her mother remarried, they moved to Point Clear at the end of Laura’s first-grade year. They became members of St. James in Fairhope, Alabama, where Laura was baptized. She was also confirmed here in the seventh grade. Laura married Sam Jones 1in 980 at St. James and their children Bo and Kelly were baptized here in 1984 and 1987 respectively. They moved away for about 15 years where they attended St. Andrew’s in Collierville, TN and St. John’s in Charlotte, NC, and upon returning to Fairhope in 2005, they came back to St. James.
As a member of St. James, Laura currently attends the Monday Night Women’s Bible study. She has also evolved into a volunteer on the wedding committee since the marriage of her daughter at St. James in 2011. This service really comes full circle when the couple returns for the baptism of their children. She also serves on the altar guild, and recently committed to the welcome ministry, as a greeter. She attended the last Cursillo #165. Laura states that this was a life life-changing event for her, and she would like to serve on staff in the future. Over the years she has also taught Sunday school, been in bible studies, co-chaired VBS, served as a LEM/chalice bearer, hospitality, coffee hour, meal team, and assisted with EYC.
Laura is a registered nurse by profession, which she feels is a ministry in and of itself. She has been allowed to care for people in the most vulnerable times in their lives. Laura states, “I have received more from my patients than I have ever given.“
Laura enjoys our church community and wishes to continue to contribute through outreach and increasing our church member involvement as we return to worship in person. She prays we return to our pre-covid status, as we were “on fire.” Laura states that if elected, she would “like to be a part of this renewal movement in church activities.”
MATTHEW MYRICK
Matt Myrick grew up in Fairhope and then attended Birmingham-Southern College before earning his Master’s in English and a law degree at the University of Alabama. After graduating from law school in 2011, he married Danielle Mashburn, another Fairhope native, and moved home to practice law with The Kullman Firm. After three years, he became a stay-at-home parent when their second child was born, and he dedicates most of his time to their now three beautiful children: Ida Mae (8), Telly (6), and Virginia (11 months). Since leaving law practice, he works regularly as a musician, he’s in charge of ordering and sales for a variety of product lines at his in-laws’ retail business, Green Gates Market, and has worked with the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Children’s of Alabama as a parent-member of the quality improvement team. Danielle and Matt were received into the Episcopal Church in 2015 and joined St. James in 2019.
Matt states: "I feel called by our Catechism’s description of 'the ministry of the laity,' i.e., 'to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world,' because I believe in the power of community as a source of healing, strength, and love for those in need. I’m grateful for our St. James community and the Episcopal “Big Tent” ethic of acceptance, and I look forward to serving however I’m needed.'
Matt Myrick grew up in Fairhope and then attended Birmingham-Southern College before earning his Master’s in English and a law degree at the University of Alabama. After graduating from law school in 2011, he married Danielle Mashburn, another Fairhope native, and moved home to practice law with The Kullman Firm. After three years, he became a stay-at-home parent when their second child was born, and he dedicates most of his time to their now three beautiful children: Ida Mae (8), Telly (6), and Virginia (11 months). Since leaving law practice, he works regularly as a musician, he’s in charge of ordering and sales for a variety of product lines at his in-laws’ retail business, Green Gates Market, and has worked with the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Children’s of Alabama as a parent-member of the quality improvement team. Danielle and Matt were received into the Episcopal Church in 2015 and joined St. James in 2019.
Matt states: "I feel called by our Catechism’s description of 'the ministry of the laity,' i.e., 'to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world,' because I believe in the power of community as a source of healing, strength, and love for those in need. I’m grateful for our St. James community and the Episcopal “Big Tent” ethic of acceptance, and I look forward to serving however I’m needed.'
MARY STATKEWICZ
Mary Statkewicz grew up in Mobile and has worked at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism since 2005. She moved to the Eastern Shore in 1990 and was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Foley for 20 years, where she volunteered on the Breakfast Team, as a Children’s Youth Minister, Chalice Bearer, and Treasurer. She joined St. James two years ago and serves as a Chalice Bearer and wants to be more involved in the church ministry here. Her children Bailey/Dustin Mosley and Ian/Caroline Dingwall attend St. James.
Mary Statkewicz grew up in Mobile and has worked at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism since 2005. She moved to the Eastern Shore in 1990 and was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Foley for 20 years, where she volunteered on the Breakfast Team, as a Children’s Youth Minister, Chalice Bearer, and Treasurer. She joined St. James two years ago and serves as a Chalice Bearer and wants to be more involved in the church ministry here. Her children Bailey/Dustin Mosley and Ian/Caroline Dingwall attend St. James.
VESTRY reports
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE SENIOR WARDEN
St. James started the year with the annual meeting and the welcoming of 4 new members to the Vestry
– Bebe Goetter, Chris Nelson, Lauren Arrington, and Earl Jackson. Roger Guilian was re-elected as the
Junior Warden; Bruce Stone was elected as the Clerk of the Vestry, and Katie Smith was re-elected as
Treasurer.
In 2021, St. James continued to press forward and lead the way in adding more worship services and
parish activities throughout the year. We had a minor setback during the summer as the Delta variant
spread throughout the area, but we were able to put this behind us and have a tremendous Fall, Advent,
and Christmas season.
Our St. James School began its fourth year of operation with continued growth, expanding to add a
second-grade class. To date, the school has been remarkably successful. It has outperformed the
expectations of both the school board and the vestry with its growth and financial solvency, while also
remaining out front with the education they are providing. The school has also done well in the area of
evangelism by recruiting several families into the parish community. Being surrounded with positivity,
further school expansion seems to be a logical decision for the future of St. James.
With this in mind, during the fall the Vestry unanimously voted to move forward to seek renderings and
ideas from architectural firms for the purpose of expanding the campus of St James. We are a growing
parish, the school will be approaching 100 students for 2022-2023 school year (in 4 short years which is
amazing) and it is time, as a parish, to get a vision for the future of St. James. We have not had a capital
campaign since the building of our current parish over 30 years ago, and it is time. Please be praying for
our parish as we move towards this exciting season in the life of our Church on the hill.
As we look ahead towards a post covid era, St. James and the staff are working tirelessly to add more and
more events, gatherings, classes and activities for 2022 and beyond. I am grateful for their hard work
and dedication and I hope you will join me in thanking them.
It has been a privilege and honor to serve as Senior Warden as we seek God together, share His love, and
serve others.
God's Peace,
Pel Henry, Senior Warden
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE JUNIOR WARDEN
Three major improvement projects were undertaken in 2021 by St. James.
The first was asphalt sealing and re-striping of the main parking lot that was completed in early 2021. St.
James spent just shy of $15,000 on that project.
Major renovations of St. James Episcopal School were undertaken, mainly on the second floor of Green
Hall, where, thanks to God’s blessings, the school has expanded to include this area outside of the
Wilson Hall school building. This renovation created new classrooms and restrooms and enhanced
existing spaces to accommodate the school’s continued growth. If you have not already done so, please
ask Shelley Miller or Anne McEniry for a tour of Wilson Hall. You will be very proud of our school! St.
James Parishioner David Martin (SEC Group) constructed these improvements. The Vestry invested
$121,462, well under the budget that it had initially approved.
The third improvement came in the form of long-overdue painting and flooring of the stairwell between
the church office and the Choir Room and adjacent hallways. St. James’ own Steve Carey, President of
Certa-Pro of Daphne delivered the painting project for $4,280. Bay Flooring, owned by
congregants Maclin & Jeannie Smith installed the flooring for just under $14,000.
Fellow parishioner Joe Strange (The Iron Shop, LLC) has begun fabrication of beautiful new metal railings
that will replace the wooden railings outside the west-facing doors to the Sanctuary where the children
gather to sing “Little Gray Donkey” every Palm Sunday. You may have noticed that many of the existing
wooden rails have rotted or broken away; Joe’s new metal rails will provide a lovely and long-lasting
improvement to the aesthetic of that entrance. Approximately $2,200 has been budgeted for this
project which is to be completed sometime in 2022.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Jr. Warden. We truly enjoy one of the most beautiful
and contemplative campuses in our area and beyond. In many ways, St. James is the unofficial welcome
mat at Fairhope’s front door. Our church buildings and the grounds are gorgeous, but they will require
vigilant upkeep as they continue to age. I cannot submit this report without acknowledging the constant
efforts – most of which go unheralded – by Meghan Fancher and Mike Costigan; they make the job of
the Jr. Warden is easy. They truly deserve all the credit. I would also like to express my gratitude to those
parishioners noted above whose businesses served St. James in its capital projects this year. The love
they have for St. James is evident in their work.
I wish my successor the best of luck and offer any help that I may be able to provide.
God’s Peace to you all+
Respectfully submitted,
ROGER C. GUILIAN
JUNIOR WARDEN
Three major improvement projects were undertaken in 2021 by St. James.
The first was asphalt sealing and re-striping of the main parking lot that was completed in early 2021. St.
James spent just shy of $15,000 on that project.
Major renovations of St. James Episcopal School were undertaken, mainly on the second floor of Green
Hall, where, thanks to God’s blessings, the school has expanded to include this area outside of the
Wilson Hall school building. This renovation created new classrooms and restrooms and enhanced
existing spaces to accommodate the school’s continued growth. If you have not already done so, please
ask Shelley Miller or Anne McEniry for a tour of Wilson Hall. You will be very proud of our school! St.
James Parishioner David Martin (SEC Group) constructed these improvements. The Vestry invested
$121,462, well under the budget that it had initially approved.
The third improvement came in the form of long-overdue painting and flooring of the stairwell between
the church office and the Choir Room and adjacent hallways. St. James’ own Steve Carey, President of
Certa-Pro of Daphne delivered the painting project for $4,280. Bay Flooring, owned by
congregants Maclin & Jeannie Smith installed the flooring for just under $14,000.
Fellow parishioner Joe Strange (The Iron Shop, LLC) has begun fabrication of beautiful new metal railings
that will replace the wooden railings outside the west-facing doors to the Sanctuary where the children
gather to sing “Little Gray Donkey” every Palm Sunday. You may have noticed that many of the existing
wooden rails have rotted or broken away; Joe’s new metal rails will provide a lovely and long-lasting
improvement to the aesthetic of that entrance. Approximately $2,200 has been budgeted for this
project which is to be completed sometime in 2022.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Jr. Warden. We truly enjoy one of the most beautiful
and contemplative campuses in our area and beyond. In many ways, St. James is the unofficial welcome
mat at Fairhope’s front door. Our church buildings and the grounds are gorgeous, but they will require
vigilant upkeep as they continue to age. I cannot submit this report without acknowledging the constant
efforts – most of which go unheralded – by Meghan Fancher and Mike Costigan; they make the job of
the Jr. Warden is easy. They truly deserve all the credit. I would also like to express my gratitude to those
parishioners noted above whose businesses served St. James in its capital projects this year. The love
they have for St. James is evident in their work.
I wish my successor the best of luck and offer any help that I may be able to provide.
God’s Peace to you all+
Respectfully submitted,
ROGER C. GUILIAN
JUNIOR WARDEN
Adults:
- Wednesday evening worship and formation
- Lay-lead classes meet weekly (Women’s Monday night Bible Study, Men’s Tuesday night
Bible Study, Wednesday Morning Bible Study, Sunday Lectionary discussion)
Youth:
- Acolyte Retreat
- Rite 13 meets weekly on Sundays for 7th and 8th graders (October-May)
- Wednesday evening worship and formation
Children:
- Children’s Chapel weekly in the church at 9 and 11 services.
- 2021 Epiphany program video
- After school program began during Lent and went through the end of the school year,
attendance ranged from 6-8 children.
- YouGroup for 5th and 6th graders meets monthly on the first Wednesday. 2 “graduated” at
the YouGroup service in the spring.
- Summer VBS was a success with 30+ children attending.
- Fall Festival and Trunk-or-Treat: 100+ attendees
- Wednesday evening children worship and formation
Ellen Huckaby
St. James Memorial Garden is a Non-Profit Corporation formed in December 2000 at the direction of the Vestry of St. James to build and operate a place suitable for the interment or burial of the ashes of deceased St. James Parishioners and their families. The Garden (50’ by 25’) is located adjacent to the sacristy with a Columbarium Wall as its southeast boundary. Access is by way of a concrete walk between the sacristy and the Bounds Chapel.
The Garden is operated by Board members selected for three-year terms by the St. James parishioners at the annual meeting. Current members are Ed Shell (Board Chairman), Bill Clarke, Linda Jamieson, Savan Wilson, Gil Wright, Bonnie Gulsby, Selah Dryer, Patty Havard, and Philip Webb.
Members of the MG Board welcome a meeting with any St. James parishioner to discuss aspects of the Memorial Garden, answer questions, and if desired, assist in the completion of a subscription agreement. Brochures are available in the Church office and our Board Members extend our welcome to you for a meeting.
There are 72 companion niches in the Columbarium wall. Each niche accommodates the ashes of two persons, each contained in a bronze urn. In 2021 we had six interments in the Columbarium wall and completed two niche subscriptions. Of the 72 companion niches, 62 are now reserved.
Columbarium wall update: Due to lengthy manufacturing times, we placed an order from Eickhof Columbaria last spring for eight niche cabinets that contain nine niches each. These cabinets, which match current existing niches, were completed in November. We are now working on schedules for the construction of walls and the installation of cabinets. Watch for updates in Anchor Lines.
There are 646 ground plots in the Garden; each plot is one-foot square and accommodates the cremains of one person. The cremains of the deceased are poured directly into a hole dug in the center of the plot. In 2021 seven plot interments were completed in the Garden. In 2021 we received six subscriptions for ground plots making a total of 104 reserved. Sixty-one of the reserved plots contain the cremains of a subscriber.
INCOME for 2021: $6,513.94 Subscription fees, Gifts, & CD Interest
EXPENSES for 2021: $28,248.45 Name Plaques, Urns, Operating expenses, Expansion costs
CHECKING BALANCE: 12/31 2021 $26,982.63 (includes reserves of $22,729.95 for nameplates and urns for current subscribers)
CD TOTAL VALUE: 12/31/21 $39,739.07
The MG operating bank account is with PNC Bank, where two CDs are also held.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Jamieson, Secretary/Treasurer
The Garden is operated by Board members selected for three-year terms by the St. James parishioners at the annual meeting. Current members are Ed Shell (Board Chairman), Bill Clarke, Linda Jamieson, Savan Wilson, Gil Wright, Bonnie Gulsby, Selah Dryer, Patty Havard, and Philip Webb.
Members of the MG Board welcome a meeting with any St. James parishioner to discuss aspects of the Memorial Garden, answer questions, and if desired, assist in the completion of a subscription agreement. Brochures are available in the Church office and our Board Members extend our welcome to you for a meeting.
There are 72 companion niches in the Columbarium wall. Each niche accommodates the ashes of two persons, each contained in a bronze urn. In 2021 we had six interments in the Columbarium wall and completed two niche subscriptions. Of the 72 companion niches, 62 are now reserved.
Columbarium wall update: Due to lengthy manufacturing times, we placed an order from Eickhof Columbaria last spring for eight niche cabinets that contain nine niches each. These cabinets, which match current existing niches, were completed in November. We are now working on schedules for the construction of walls and the installation of cabinets. Watch for updates in Anchor Lines.
There are 646 ground plots in the Garden; each plot is one-foot square and accommodates the cremains of one person. The cremains of the deceased are poured directly into a hole dug in the center of the plot. In 2021 seven plot interments were completed in the Garden. In 2021 we received six subscriptions for ground plots making a total of 104 reserved. Sixty-one of the reserved plots contain the cremains of a subscriber.
INCOME for 2021: $6,513.94 Subscription fees, Gifts, & CD Interest
EXPENSES for 2021: $28,248.45 Name Plaques, Urns, Operating expenses, Expansion costs
CHECKING BALANCE: 12/31 2021 $26,982.63 (includes reserves of $22,729.95 for nameplates and urns for current subscribers)
CD TOTAL VALUE: 12/31/21 $39,739.07
The MG operating bank account is with PNC Bank, where two CDs are also held.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Jamieson, Secretary/Treasurer
Music at St. James Annual Report
Throughout 2021, the St. James Choir sang for both the 9 and 11 AM services each week, even
in the summer. Our choir members are devoted to the music ministry here at St. James. Not only
do they rehearse for and serve on Sunday mornings, but they also prepare the music for special
services. They prepared the Durufle Requiem for November, Advent Lessons and Carols and
Christmas Eve music for December. We have gained a few new choir members and have
regained a few who were on sabbatical. We can barely fit all of us in the choir loft sometimes.
This is a great challenge to have.
In April, Helen Rodgers became a part time employee.
St. James was fortunate to add the musically, multi-faceted Mary Katherine Kilgore to our staff
in June as Associate Director of Music for the church and Music Director for the school. With
the fast growth of the St. James School, the timing could not be more perfect. She hit the ground
running as the first two weeks with us were spent in Birmingham, Alabama at Samford
University where she earned her Level One Orff Certification. St. James purchased a set of Orff
metallophones and xylophones to be used with the school. As Music Director of the school,
Mary Katherine spends 11-13 hours each week preparing for and teaching seven music classes,
leading music for weekly chapel services and special school presentations. The Orff music
training and music curriculum Mary Katherine is using to teach her classes makes the music
program at St. James School unique in the area. As choir director, Mary Katherine has been able
to infuse new energy and intensity for our steadfast Adult Choir, restart the Canterbury Choir
(grades 3 – 6) and begin a choir for grades K-2, the Whitby Choir!
The Men’s Compline Singers continued to present a service each third Sunday evening, except
for October, where a Taizé service was offered in the chapel. I would encourage every member
of St. James to attend Compline to experience a fresh and powerful way to pray.
The St. James Concert Series featured concerts in April and October as well as the Durufle
Requiem for our All Saints Celebration November 7, 2021 at the 9am and 11 am worship
services.
Mary Katherine and Helen are very ably assisted by Frank Stabler, who wears many hats. A few
tasks that Frank continues to take care of are, copyright information for our live streamed
worship services, maintaining the music library, setting up and taking down our rehearsal space,
coordinating the choir for processional and recessional hymns, and much, much more! Frank
plays a major role with the Compline service by being cantor and rehearsing the men when
needed.
Respectfully submitted,
Helen V. Rodgers
Director of Music
Throughout 2021, the St. James Choir sang for both the 9 and 11 AM services each week, even
in the summer. Our choir members are devoted to the music ministry here at St. James. Not only
do they rehearse for and serve on Sunday mornings, but they also prepare the music for special
services. They prepared the Durufle Requiem for November, Advent Lessons and Carols and
Christmas Eve music for December. We have gained a few new choir members and have
regained a few who were on sabbatical. We can barely fit all of us in the choir loft sometimes.
This is a great challenge to have.
In April, Helen Rodgers became a part time employee.
St. James was fortunate to add the musically, multi-faceted Mary Katherine Kilgore to our staff
in June as Associate Director of Music for the church and Music Director for the school. With
the fast growth of the St. James School, the timing could not be more perfect. She hit the ground
running as the first two weeks with us were spent in Birmingham, Alabama at Samford
University where she earned her Level One Orff Certification. St. James purchased a set of Orff
metallophones and xylophones to be used with the school. As Music Director of the school,
Mary Katherine spends 11-13 hours each week preparing for and teaching seven music classes,
leading music for weekly chapel services and special school presentations. The Orff music
training and music curriculum Mary Katherine is using to teach her classes makes the music
program at St. James School unique in the area. As choir director, Mary Katherine has been able
to infuse new energy and intensity for our steadfast Adult Choir, restart the Canterbury Choir
(grades 3 – 6) and begin a choir for grades K-2, the Whitby Choir!
The Men’s Compline Singers continued to present a service each third Sunday evening, except
for October, where a Taizé service was offered in the chapel. I would encourage every member
of St. James to attend Compline to experience a fresh and powerful way to pray.
The St. James Concert Series featured concerts in April and October as well as the Durufle
Requiem for our All Saints Celebration November 7, 2021 at the 9am and 11 am worship
services.
Mary Katherine and Helen are very ably assisted by Frank Stabler, who wears many hats. A few
tasks that Frank continues to take care of are, copyright information for our live streamed
worship services, maintaining the music library, setting up and taking down our rehearsal space,
coordinating the choir for processional and recessional hymns, and much, much more! Frank
plays a major role with the Compline service by being cantor and rehearsing the men when
needed.
Respectfully submitted,
Helen V. Rodgers
Director of Music
While writing this memo I reviewed emails dating back to January 2021. To say the least, the year has
had its challenges; however, we were able to meet on somewhat of a regular basis. We are so thankful
for the guidance Father De and the entire staff has provided. Additional thanks to everyone stepping up
and helping when help’s been needed.
2021 Accomplishments:
Pentecost Picnic: Outreach stepped up and sponsored the Pentecost Picnic. This was the first major
gathering St James members in quite a while. Fried chicken and all the fixings. It was well attended, but
I don’t think we should try and set this up in the meadow anytime soon again unless we are confident
with cool weather (it was hot). A special thanks to Catherine Dorough who really worked out the details
and worked the entire meal.
Back to School Red, White, and Blue. After a lot of discussion and planning we were uninvited to
participate due to the Delta Variant. This is a wonderful event sponsored by the Fairhope Police
department. Students are provided new clothing, back packs, food, etc…. Hopefully this event will
continue at full capacity in 2022.
Outreach went on a field trip to Wilmer Hall and planned on hosting a church dinner event to allow
Executive Director Pratt Paterson an opportunity to engage our members on the good things going on at
Wilmer Hall. Unfortunately, COVID-19 put the event on hold. We hope to follow up in 2022.
Outreach has asked Father De to make financial contributions when he sees a need. Prodisee Pantry
and Ecumenical Ministries were among the organizations offered assistance.
Angel Tree: The St James family is the best. We were able to provide Christmas gifts for Veterans,
Children and elderly in need through Ecumenical Ministries, Children of Parents in prison through Prison
Ministries, Etc… A special thanks to Mary Pilcher for her continued effort insuring Christmas for the
needy.
I would like to thank our outreach committee members for staying the course. Anne Sclater, Catherine
Dorough, Kristen Wooten, Mary Pilcher, Michelle Roberts, Randy Sterrenberg, and Susan Crutchfield.
This group has passion and love, and in my mind, those are the two most important ingredients when it
comes to Gods work and outreach.
On a parting note: I have asked Father De to replace me as Outreach Chair. I have enjoyed working with
everyone and plan to continue working with outreach as a committee member. I am extremely proud
to announce my replacement is Michelle Roberts. Michelle brings a different twist to the committee
and will surely move the committee forward.
Respectively submitted,
Teddy Faust
had its challenges; however, we were able to meet on somewhat of a regular basis. We are so thankful
for the guidance Father De and the entire staff has provided. Additional thanks to everyone stepping up
and helping when help’s been needed.
2021 Accomplishments:
Pentecost Picnic: Outreach stepped up and sponsored the Pentecost Picnic. This was the first major
gathering St James members in quite a while. Fried chicken and all the fixings. It was well attended, but
I don’t think we should try and set this up in the meadow anytime soon again unless we are confident
with cool weather (it was hot). A special thanks to Catherine Dorough who really worked out the details
and worked the entire meal.
Back to School Red, White, and Blue. After a lot of discussion and planning we were uninvited to
participate due to the Delta Variant. This is a wonderful event sponsored by the Fairhope Police
department. Students are provided new clothing, back packs, food, etc…. Hopefully this event will
continue at full capacity in 2022.
Outreach went on a field trip to Wilmer Hall and planned on hosting a church dinner event to allow
Executive Director Pratt Paterson an opportunity to engage our members on the good things going on at
Wilmer Hall. Unfortunately, COVID-19 put the event on hold. We hope to follow up in 2022.
Outreach has asked Father De to make financial contributions when he sees a need. Prodisee Pantry
and Ecumenical Ministries were among the organizations offered assistance.
Angel Tree: The St James family is the best. We were able to provide Christmas gifts for Veterans,
Children and elderly in need through Ecumenical Ministries, Children of Parents in prison through Prison
Ministries, Etc… A special thanks to Mary Pilcher for her continued effort insuring Christmas for the
needy.
I would like to thank our outreach committee members for staying the course. Anne Sclater, Catherine
Dorough, Kristen Wooten, Mary Pilcher, Michelle Roberts, Randy Sterrenberg, and Susan Crutchfield.
This group has passion and love, and in my mind, those are the two most important ingredients when it
comes to Gods work and outreach.
On a parting note: I have asked Father De to replace me as Outreach Chair. I have enjoyed working with
everyone and plan to continue working with outreach as a committee member. I am extremely proud
to announce my replacement is Michelle Roberts. Michelle brings a different twist to the committee
and will surely move the committee forward.
Respectively submitted,
Teddy Faust
St. James Episcopal School
Annual Report 2021 - 2022
St. James Episcopal School is a member in good standing with the National Association of
Episcopal Schools.
By design, an Episcopal school education’s value is in its empowering program that provides a
community of care, spiritual teachings, developmentally appropriate practices and academics
combined with enrichment opportunities. Our STJES staff is committed to being faithful
stewards of our church/school resources that provide an exemplary education every day for
each child in our care.
School Year 2021 - 2022.
● Added 2 administrative positions - Anne McEniry as Director of Admissions and Marcy
Covington as Office Administrator
● Leslie Guilian - Church and School Media
● 7 Teachers K2 - 2nd Grade / 6 Teacher Assistants
● Current enrollment 77 students
● New school website launched - Jennifer Glover, Anne McEniry, and Leslie Guilian
● Infrastructure - Two classrooms and two bathrooms added above Green Hall. These
classrooms house our multi-grade first/second-grade classroom and a kindergarten
class.
● The Summer Camp program continued to expand and run for 7 weeks. Four classes are
offered: PK3, PK4, K, and first/second combination class.
● Catered Lunch offerings M, W, F. We have partnered with local businesses for school
lunches.
● Enrichment Opportunities include: Weekly Chapel, Godly Play (K2 - Kindergarten)
Religion (first/second grade), Environmental Science, Library, Music, Spanish, YOGA (K2
- K4) and daily P.E. for Kindergarten through Second Grade.
● Students continue to benefit from a variety of onsite visitors and field trips.
Field trips for the Lower school K through Second Grade include Zoo, Exploreum, Coast
Guard Station, and Seussical Play.
Parish volunteers drive weekly to the Fairhope Library.
● Extracurricular activities include on-campus ballet, jazz, tap, and tumbling classes. Youth
Development League Soccer
● PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) organized - Laura Port, President
Responsible for organizing school fundraisers which financially benefit our school.
● Annual Fundraiser Zebedee-do-dah Fest - Monies raised $47,136. 37
Fundraiser Chairs Jennifer Lambert and Laura Port
● Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools Program (EANS) funds allocated to St.
James School. These federal funds were acquired through an application process
pursued by Marcy Covington.
● Professional Development opportunities include training on Campus Security,
Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum, Positive Guidance, Language Development,
Promoting Positivity in the classroom, Increasing Student Confidence using Visual Cues,
and Empathy and Mindfulness.
● Community Outreach
Prodisee Pantry Food Drive, Ronald McDonald House, Cards to First Responders and
Health Care Workers / Veteran’s Day Program
Thank you to all who are a part of this educational experience and who have contributed
in their own ways to St. James Episcopal School. I am grateful for the support of so
many. I want to express my gratitude to you and my hope that you will continue to
support our effort as a school community, a source of evangelism and outreach. We
want to continue to “Introduce children to Christ in a nurturing environment by providing
exemplary preparation for future learning.”
Respectively submitted,
Shelley Miller
Annual Report 2021 - 2022
St. James Episcopal School is a member in good standing with the National Association of
Episcopal Schools.
By design, an Episcopal school education’s value is in its empowering program that provides a
community of care, spiritual teachings, developmentally appropriate practices and academics
combined with enrichment opportunities. Our STJES staff is committed to being faithful
stewards of our church/school resources that provide an exemplary education every day for
each child in our care.
School Year 2021 - 2022.
● Added 2 administrative positions - Anne McEniry as Director of Admissions and Marcy
Covington as Office Administrator
● Leslie Guilian - Church and School Media
● 7 Teachers K2 - 2nd Grade / 6 Teacher Assistants
● Current enrollment 77 students
● New school website launched - Jennifer Glover, Anne McEniry, and Leslie Guilian
● Infrastructure - Two classrooms and two bathrooms added above Green Hall. These
classrooms house our multi-grade first/second-grade classroom and a kindergarten
class.
● The Summer Camp program continued to expand and run for 7 weeks. Four classes are
offered: PK3, PK4, K, and first/second combination class.
● Catered Lunch offerings M, W, F. We have partnered with local businesses for school
lunches.
● Enrichment Opportunities include: Weekly Chapel, Godly Play (K2 - Kindergarten)
Religion (first/second grade), Environmental Science, Library, Music, Spanish, YOGA (K2
- K4) and daily P.E. for Kindergarten through Second Grade.
● Students continue to benefit from a variety of onsite visitors and field trips.
Field trips for the Lower school K through Second Grade include Zoo, Exploreum, Coast
Guard Station, and Seussical Play.
Parish volunteers drive weekly to the Fairhope Library.
● Extracurricular activities include on-campus ballet, jazz, tap, and tumbling classes. Youth
Development League Soccer
● PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) organized - Laura Port, President
Responsible for organizing school fundraisers which financially benefit our school.
● Annual Fundraiser Zebedee-do-dah Fest - Monies raised $47,136. 37
Fundraiser Chairs Jennifer Lambert and Laura Port
● Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools Program (EANS) funds allocated to St.
James School. These federal funds were acquired through an application process
pursued by Marcy Covington.
● Professional Development opportunities include training on Campus Security,
Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum, Positive Guidance, Language Development,
Promoting Positivity in the classroom, Increasing Student Confidence using Visual Cues,
and Empathy and Mindfulness.
● Community Outreach
Prodisee Pantry Food Drive, Ronald McDonald House, Cards to First Responders and
Health Care Workers / Veteran’s Day Program
Thank you to all who are a part of this educational experience and who have contributed
in their own ways to St. James Episcopal School. I am grateful for the support of so
many. I want to express my gratitude to you and my hope that you will continue to
support our effort as a school community, a source of evangelism and outreach. We
want to continue to “Introduce children to Christ in a nurturing environment by providing
exemplary preparation for future learning.”
Respectively submitted,
Shelley Miller
