From the Rector: August 2022

Barbara Whitesides

Alex Murchison

While I am not eager to do so, this is what I see when I look in the mirror.

Mandy Hackler

Erin Trask

Shannon Lockamy

Shannon joined St. James in August of 2018, moving here from central NC. Shannon most recently worked for WCPSS, as a Dance Teacher in multiple settings, teaching crafting skills through 4-H, as well as homeschooling her daughter. Shannon received both her Associates Degrees from Peace College, Raleigh, NC and attended NC State University majoring in the Masters in Teaching program.

Shannon enjoys pottery, dancing, playing the bagpipes, working on puzzles and working educating children. Children are truly the lifeforce of our future. Jesus asked for the children to be brought to Him. Patience, practice and perseverance are all important to building a strong foundation in a child's life. Let us empower our children to be strong Christians and feed them as Jesus fed the masses.

It is a privilege to work with the children of St. James Parish and the families of St. James. The love of Christ abounds within these walls.

Cookie Cantwell

Cookie Cantwell first came to St. James as a Youth Ministries Consultant. This position morphed into a full-time Youth Ministries Coordinator staff position, where the focus continues to be on building authentic relationships with Jesus Christ among the young people within the Parish and throughout the world. Through fun, friendships, Bible studies, service projects, mission experiences, music, and worship, young people and the adults who accompany them on their journey of faith strive to provide meaningful opportunities to grow spiritually within a Christian community. In addition to enjoying her ministry among our youth, Cookie also enjoys her family, Happening, Province IV Youth Ministries, hiking, kayaking, needlepoint and reading.

The Rev. Cheryl Brainard

Cheryl Brainard came to St James to complete an internship for Holy Orders to the priesthood in 2018. After ordination to the priesthood, Cheryl remained on staff as an associate rector. She attended Furman University and worked as a flight attendant for 20 years prior to attending seminary at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. Since seminary, she has served as a hospital chaplain and continues to hold a part-time position at Novant Health Care where she works with our local community. Her areas of focus at St James are Congregational Care and Faith Formation. She loves music and enjoys playing the piano, sewing, and boating. Cheryl is married to Don and as a blended family, they have 3 children and 4 grandchildren.