by Marilyn Canady

St. James’ Knoxville kicked off its 75th anniversary observance on July 25, the Feast of St. James. The guest preacher at both Sunday morning services was the Rev. Michael Doty, Rector of St. Paul’s, Athens. His homily recounted St. James’ tradition of outreach ministries from its roots at the Church of the Epiphany to the present.

At a reception following the services, the Rev. Joe Ballard, Rector, St. James, welcomed the nearly 200 guests in attendance. Among the guest were the Rev. John Bull, who served as rector of St. James for almost 30 years before his retirement in 1983. Francis Hooper Dunlap, daughter of the parish’s first rector, and Mattie Campen were honored as “parish matriarchs.” Also in attendance were Victor Ashe, Knoxville Mayor and County Commissioner Pat Medley.

The anniversary observance will continue in September with a Rally Day Birthday Party for the parish. The celebration will culminate on All Saints’ Day with a commemoration of “All the Saints of St. James’.” The youth of the church and newer members will be capturing the memories of long-time parishioners in order to have a record their individual perspectives on St. James’ Church