A Gothic Revival beauty stands before us. This is Saint James’ Episcopal Church, or St. James’ in-the-City. The church distinguishes itself from another St. James’ Episcopal Church in South Pasadena. This house of worship has a rich history and architectural significance.
St. James’ Episcopal Church is located in the Wilshire Center area of Los Angeles. It sits between Koreatown and Hancock Park. The church is part of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles.
Let’s journey back to the early 20th century. The first services at St. James’ were held in 1908. The St James’ parish was officially established in 1912. Reverend Noel Porter served as the first rector. The original church was located about 1.5 miles southeast of here at Pico and Ardmore Boulevards.
In 1914, something special happened here. Los Angeles Boy Scout Troop 10 was founded under the parish’s auspices. It is the oldest continuously sponsored Boy Scout troop in the United States.
By 1916, the growing congregation needed more space. They moved to a larger building farther north. This location was at the corner of Western Avenue and Monette Place. Interestingly, the early parish boundaries stretched all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Over time, new Episcopal parishes were founded. These new parishes were in Beverly Hills, Westwood, and the Pacific Palisades. So the boundaries shifted inland.
The building we see today was designed by Benjamin McDougall. He was a renowned San Francisco Bay area architect. The design reflects the Gothic Revival style. Construction took place from 1925 to 1926. The church sits on land originally purchased by The Rev. Ray Miller. The structure is made of reinforced concrete with a stucco overlay.
Look up. The roof reaches 60 feet at its highest point. The bell tower soars even higher at 100 feet. Notice the ceiling inside. Redwood beams and trusses create a unique effect. They resemble the inside of a ship’s hull. Take a look at the floor. Ceramic tiles feature the same Celtic cross motif. Immanuel Presbyterian Church nearby shares this design element.
The stained glass windows are a highlight of St. James’ Episcopal Church. Judson Studios created them over many years. Work began in 1932 and continues to this day. The windows depict traditional religious scenes. You’ll see saints and biblical figures. But there is more. The windows also include images symbolic of the times they were created. Look closely for a movie camera. There’s also the Apollo moonwalk, freeway lanes, and the downtown Los Angeles skyline. You can even spot the Korean flag and Latino immigrants.
St. James’ Episcopal Church has hosted notable events. The funeral of Nat King Cole took place here in 1965. Cole was a parishioner of St. James’. Prominent figures attended. These included Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Robert F. Kennedy, and Pat Brown.
In 1994, the church expanded. A new parish hall and office complex were added. Architect Johannes Van Tilburg designed it. A columbarium was built in the chapel.
Let’s talk about the church’s commitment to education. In 1968, St. James’ Episcopal School opened. It provides elementary education for local families. Initially, it served kindergarten through sixth grade. In 1981, the school moved to its current location. It is just north of the church on St. Andrews Place.
St. James’ is home to a remarkable organ. It is a rebuilt 1911 Murray M. Harris organ. This organ replaced an earlier 1926 Kimball organ. The Murray Harris organ came from St. Paul’s Cathedral in downtown Los Angeles. It had been in storage after the cathedral’s demolition in 1980 due to earthquake damage. The organ was extensively restored and rebuilt. It arrived at St. James’ in April 1995. It has approximately 5,000 pipes, 50 divisions, 3 manuals, and 66 stops. The organ is named the David John Falconer Memorial Organ. This is in memory of the choirmaster who spearheaded the project. David Falconer served at St. James’ from 1983 until his murder in 1994.
The church’s sanctuary serves as a performance venue. It hosts choral performances through the Great Music programming. You can also enjoy organ recitals in the International Laureates Organ Series. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art Sundays Live chamber music program is broadcast live by KUSC from here.
St. James’ Episcopal Church has appeared on screen. It has been featured in music videos for Tyrese and Ariana Grande. Television pilots and shows have filmed here. These include Germany’s Top Model, Mad Men, and West Wing. The church has also appeared in the films Death Becomes Her and End of Days.
From its stained glass to its soaring bell tower, St. James’ Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith. It also shows community and artistic expression. Its history is woven into the fabric of Los Angeles. Its doors remain open to all who seek solace and inspiration.