In 2005, St. James' Prayer Shawl Ministry was begun.  Compassion and the love of knitting or crocheting have been combined into a prayerful ministry and spiritual practice which reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace, as well as in celebration and joy. Many blessings are prayed into every shawl.  In addition to prayer shawls, members of the ministry began the practice of knitting or crocheting blankets to be presented to infants and young children when they are baptized.  It is becoming a model for such ministries in other parishes of the Diocese of Washington. See article about this ministry: The Window at EDOW, February - 2006.

Service

Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington: St. James' is one of 36 partner parishes in the Greater Washington area that helps this outreach program to help the temporarily homeless and disadvantaged persons in our community.  The food placed in the baskets in the narthex entryway and brought to the altar during the offertory supports and sustains outreach efforts to the hungry and homeless of the City. Particularly needed are items suitable for lunches (individual servings), toilet articles, powdered milk, canned meats, fruits and vegetables, and baby food. Volunteers are always needed to teach and counsel.  To volunteer call 202-722-2280.

Out-reach ministries to area nursing homes: Each Wednesday a team of volunteers visits one of our "companion" nursing homes leading worship services and visiting with those in residence. This is a very important ministry to these seniors. If you would be willing to assist on Wednesdays, please speak with the church office.

Shepherd's Table: St. James' helps feed the needy and homeless at Shepherd's Table in Silver Spring on fifth Wednesdays (four or five times a year). There are two shifts: one at 4:00 p.m. to set tables and help put out desserts, breads and salads. The second shift arrives at 5:45 p.m., serves the meal to about 120-140 people, helps clean up, and is out by 8:00 p.m. Volunteers are always welcome.

Gideons: The Gideons were organized for the purpose of providing a service for business and professional men in placing the Bible or portions thereof in hotels, hospitals, schools, institutions, and also in the distribution of Bibles for personal use. If you are interested in being a part of this important ministry, contact Jerry Morrison.

Child Transfer Center: Drop off and pick up of children services. These enable children to be exchanged by parents in a safe, secure way. This Center is unique because it involves participation by county courts, churches (St. James', Potomac), and a non-profit organization, the Children's Rights Council, which works to help children and families.

Interfaith Works (formerly Community Ministry of Montgomery County)

Prison Ministry: St. James' has two programs that reach out to inmates at the Montgomery County Detention Center. The first, the Tutoring Ministry, provides volunteers to help inmates get their GED certificates, improve occupational skills, or speak better English, thus increasing their future employment opportunities. The second program is the Aftercare Ministry, working one-on-one with prisoners slated for release within three months. They strive to remain in contact for at least six months afterward, offering prayer and encouragement to former inmates who are rebuilding their lives. For more information, call James Finch.

"The Shepherd's Staff" Ministry: Parishioners provide food, meals, transportation to doctors, church, or other needed places, or to run an errand from time to time for parishioners who are in need of assistance due to illness or injury. If you would like to be a part of this ministry call the church office.