The Parish of St. James

Since 1863 the parish of St. James has been serving the Port Colborne Anglican community. The Rev. W.E. Cooper was appointed the first incumbent of Port Colborne together with Marshville (Wainfleet).

The first church building was constructed in 1867, and the first service was held on July 1st, 1867, the day of Confederation.

This building stood for over 50 years, but on November 7th, 1915 the church burned to the ground a few hours after the conclusion of the evening service.

Steps were immediately taken to rebuild a new church. A new cornerstone was laid on September 9, 1916, and the church was officially re-opened on April 22, 1917 in the presence of over 500 people. A pipe organ was installed in 1923.

Over the years , the Parish of St. James faithfully served the community and continued to experience growth. In 1929 the Guild Hall was enlarged. In 1955 a narthex was built. In 1957 a new rectory was constructed. Many years of fruitful ministry followed.

In recent years, it became apparent that the Anglican community in Port Colborne could be better served by one parish. After much discussion and debate, the decision was made to disestablish the Parishes of St. James and St. Brendan the Navigator, also in Port Colborne, amalgamting the two congregations as St. James & St. Brendan. The parish was therefore disestablished by Rt. Rev. Ralph Spence at an evening service on June 15, 2006.

The new Parish of St. James and St. Brendan was established by Bishop Ralph Spence three days later on June 18, 2006. The amalgamated parish now worships in the former church of St. James.