Case Study

Building vitality in lay-led congregations
St. James Episcopal Church, Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Tell us about your congregation and its mission, including how long you've been without a priest.

We have four locally discerned, ordained priests in our congregation, supported by a
missioner from the diocesan staff. Our congregation has been led by a Ministry Support Team since the late 90s/early 2000s.

Describe your congregation's leadership.

As a Ministry Support Team, we are made up of the priests and other members. We all have a say in planning or the work, and are constantly welcoming anyone interested in being part of the team.

How are your leaders handling day-to-day congregational life (e.g., formation, worship decisions, pastoral care, budgeting, discretionary fund)? 

We receive education support from the diocese. Vestry covers budgeting with input from the congregation. Ministry Support Team handles the worship decisions and discretionary fund through meetings and planning.

How does your congregation set its mission and outreach strategy?

Ministry Support Team works with the congregation to work through and plan and execute their ministries and missions.

What are the biggest challenges of operating without a priest as leader?

In the beginning, people were not used to sharing the responsibilities, but now it has worked out and made us a stronger team.

How are you handling your relationship with your diocese and your bishop?

Our Bishop and Diocese and Parish are very supportive of each other.

What is your dream for your congregation’s future?

To be a stronger community and build a future mission to continue.