About St. James' Episcopal Church
Serving God and our community in Hammondsport for generations
A Community of Faith and Welcome
St. James’ Episcopal Church is a Christ-centered community rooted in worship, prayer, and fellowship. Located in the heart of Hammondsport, we are a parish of the Episcopal Church that seeks to follow Jesus through thoughtful worship, compassionate service, and a spirit of welcome.
We gather to pray, learn, and grow together, supporting one another in faith while serving our neighbors with care and generosity.
Our Faith
As part of the Episcopal Church, our worship is grounded in scripture and shaped by the Book of Common Prayer. We value tradition while embracing thoughtful engagement with the world around us.
At St. James’, you will find a faith that is:
- Rooted in Christ
- Guided by prayer and scripture
- Open, welcoming, and inclusive
- Committed to service and compassion
All are welcome at God’s table, and questions are always encouraged.
Our Leadership
Rev. Craig Hacker
Mary White
Sandy Young
Karen Derr
Wayne Grimes
Donna Noteware
Deb Bartlett
Virginia Kasser
Richard Little
Gladys Palmer
Carolyn Scroggins
Marilyn Dowdle
Jim Derr
Convention Delegates: Richard Little, Luanne Graulich, Mary White
Pledge Clerk: Jim Grillo
Choir Director & Organist: Elenor Boutwell
Our Story
St. James’ Episcopal Church has been part of the Hammondsport community since the early 19th century. The first Episcopal services in the area were held in the 1820s, and the parish has continued to grow and adapt through generations of faithful worship.
1825
First Episcopal Worship Service by a regular clergyman in this area, the result of efforts by Mrs. Elizabeth Hull Townsend, held in Bath, the Rev. William Bostwick officiating. Rev. Bostwick was busy organizing new parishes including Bath, Penn Yan and Hammondsport.
1829
St. James’ Parish, Hammondsport, officially organized. First Rector: Rev. William Bostwick. He perceived that this region would be ideal for the cultivation of grapes, brought in and planted the first vines, and so began the story of Wine Country, USA.
1833
First of three church buildings consecrated by Bishop Onderdonk- a graceful wooden structure of medium size.
1877
The Masonic Temple originally served as the first church for St. James’ Parish. It was consecrated as a wooden church in 1833 by Bishop Onderdonk. In 1877 the original church building was de-consecrated and moved across Main St where it was repurposed to serve as the Masonic Temple. As of 2026 it is part of a village-wide historic district added to the National Register of Historic Places. It now serves as the home of Laker Kids, a licensed after-school childcare program.
1877
Second of three church buildings consecrated by Bishop Coxe – a large wooden structure.
1894
Second building burned to the ground, its spire having been struck by lightning late one night and the local fire engine having failed at a critical moment. The Rector, the Rev. Thomas Duck, rescued the brass communion desk, the communion vessels, some altar vases, and the wooden hymn board, all of which are still in use today in the present building.
1895
Third and present church building, a large stone structure completed and consecrated by the same Bishop Coxe. The architect, W. H. Archer of Buffalo, NY, combined materials and design to produce a building that most of us would recognize at once as Episcopal, especially with the main doors painted Episcopal red. The cornerstone contains documents formerly in the cornerstone of the second building plus an 1886 Prayer Book, an 1874 Hymnal, numerous photographs, and the names of the Rector (Rev Duck), Wardens, Vestry members and Building Committee members.
1950s - 1980s
Complete renovation of the Undercroft- dining room, kitchen, office and restrooms. Also a new Sunday School room, as a memorial to Dean Frey. Renovation of the Sacristy as a memorial to Louise Hunn, with a new free-standing altar built as a gift of time and talent by parishioner Ed Tyler.
1990s
Church building made handicapped-accessible after a successful fundraising drive. The side steps into the tower were removed, an elevator was installed, and a new tower entrance with tower staircase were created. Sound equipment was added for the hearing-impaired. A new arched stained-glass window was created and installed in the tower above the side entrance. The window, presented to the church as a memorial to Gladys Champlin Doherty, is graced by symbols of local significance, including Keuka Lake, native grapes, and a vintage Glenn Curtiss aeroplane piloted by Mrs. Doherty’s husband, a pioneer aviator. A “new” church organ (actually a grand 1890’s Hook & Hastings in fine condition), was found by parishioner Gregg Learned and installed by Peckham & Son of Breesport, NY.
2003
Major renovation to interior of sanctuary with much hand-crafted woodwork by parishioner Ed Tyler.
2008
Parishioner Gerald Lange published a book of photographs called The Windows and Sanctuary of St. James’ Episcopal Church.
2009
Complete renovation of the undercroft, including Fellowship Hall, kitchen, multi-purpose room, church office, heating and AC utilities. (See Behind The Walls pix during remodeling).
2021
New video system and cams Installed to live-stream and record all services
What's Next?
Our Ministries
Find your place at St. James by exploring our ministries and discovering opportunities to get involved.
Latest Service
Be part of our worship—view the latest service from St. James and experience our community in prayer.
Upcoming Events
Stay connected—explore upcoming events at St. James and join our community in fellowship.
You Are Always Welcome Here
Whether you are a lifelong Episcopalian, new to the area, or simply exploring faith, there is a place for you at St. James’.
We would love to meet you and worship together.