Doesn’t this Gothic Revival style evoke a sense of timelessness? Here at Saint James Episcopal Church, history and artistry intertwine.
Saint James Episcopal Church stands as a beacon of faith and community in the Wilshire Center area. It is often called Saint James in-the-City. This distinguishes it from another Saint James Episcopal Church in South Pasadena.
The story of Saint James Episcopal Church began in 1908 with its first services. The parish was officially established in 1912. Reverend Noel Porter served as the first rector. The original church was located about a mile and a half southeast of here.
Interestingly, Los Angeles Boy Scout Troop 10 was founded under the church’s guidance in 1914. It is the oldest continuously sponsored Boy Scout troop in the United States.
By 1916, the growing congregation needed a larger space. They moved to a building further north. The early parish boundaries stretched all the way to the Pacific Ocean. As new Episcopal parishes formed the boundaries moved inland.
This current building was designed by Benjamin McDougall. He was a renowned architect from the San Francisco Bay Area. Construction took place from 1925 to 1926. Reverend Ray Miller originally bought the land.
The structure itself is made of reinforced concrete. It has a stucco overlay. The roof reaches a height of 60 feet. The bell tower soars even higher at 100 feet.
Inside, the ceiling features redwood beams. These beams and trusses resemble a ship’s hull. The floor is paved with ceramic tiles. These tiles bear the same Celtic cross motif found at Immanuel Presbyterian Church nearby.
The stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy. Judson Studios created them over many years. The windows depict traditional religious scenes. But they also include symbols of modern times. Look closely for a movie camera, the Apollo moonwalk, freeway lanes, and even the Los Angeles skyline.
Saint James Episcopal Church has been a place of solace and remembrance. In 1965, Nat King Cole’s funeral was held here. Cole was a parishioner. Prominent figures like Duke Ellington and Frank Sinatra attended.
In 1994, the church expanded. A new parish hall and office complex were added. A columbarium was built in the chapel.
Saint James’ Episcopal School opened in 1968. It provides elementary education for the community. In 1981, the school moved to its current location just north of the church.
Music plays a vital role here. The church houses a rebuilt 1911 Murray M. Harris organ. It was acquired from St. Paul’s Cathedral after its demolition. The organ was restored and rebuilt. It features approximately 5,000 pipes. It is named the David John Falconer Memorial Organ.
The sanctuary serves as a venue for musical performances. It is used for choral concerts and organ recitals. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art also hosts chamber music programming here.
Saint James Episcopal Church has also appeared on screen. It has been featured in music videos, television shows, and films.
From its architecture to its art and music, Saint James Episcopal Church reflects a rich history. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community in Los Angeles.