Renewal

What is the need?
In 2011, St James the Less celebrates its 150th anniversary, and we’re seeking to transform these two grade I-listed buildings alongside this special anniversary. We’re raising funds to complete a two-stage project, in response to a pressing need. We need your support to make this happen.

Phase 1: Redevelopment and Refurbishment of St James the Less Parish Centre
The Parish Centre is currently closed because the heating has irrevocably broken down and needs to be replaced, as does much of the electrical wiring. This means the Open Door Meal, held every other week, for homeless people, is being forced to meet in another local church; that the Parish Centre (and Church) has no cooking facilities and that the space available for our own groups and other local groups to use rooms is much reduced. It also means that plans to start running different kinds of community activities, such as homework clubs and groups for older people, have had to be put on hold as we simply do not have space for them.

Phase 2: Restoration of St James the Less Church
St James the Less has a fantastic Grade I listed building. Designed by the Architect GE Street and built in 1861, it is a fine example of Gothic revival architecture. But it is in a poor state. Expert cleaning is needed to restore the interior to its true glory, including the important mosaic by GF Watts, beautiful stained glass windows, ornate timber ceilings and darkened brickwork. Extensive work is also needed to repair the ornate stonework inside and outside the church, as well as the pulpit by Thomas Earp.

How can I help?
Donate
… financially
Based on detailed plans and careful preliminary work, the Parish Centre project is estimated to cost £375,000; the Church restoration project, £440,000. We simply cannot move forward without financial support, to pay the surveyors, electricians, carpenters, decorators and all the different people involved in the project. Your donation will go directly to the costs of the building project.

… time and skills
Many people have already given their time and skills to make this project happen. Some examples of this include:
Our architect is giving all his time pro bono.
Members of the congregation have carried out sponsored events.
The men’s group carried out demolition work in the refurbished schoolrooms (creating some space for ministries to carry on while the Parish Centre is closed); the women’s group used various chemicals on the walls to clean them further.
Different items have been sold to raise money, including handmade cards and CDs.