St. James HCOCD Rededication Celebration When we think about the goodness of the LORD and what HE has done for us, our souls cry out Hallelujah! We give thanks to HIM for all of HIS blessings for the glorious outpouring of HIS SPIRIT as we celebrate our Church Rededication. The foundation for St. James was laid in Rosemont section of Norfolk, Va. in 1956 and was pastored by Bishop Garland E. Benson. It all began with Bishop Benson and a few faithful members, holding services at the home of Sister Fanny Simms, and later at Elder Copeland’s church. St. James later moved into its own new building built on property donated by a faithful member. Its was during that time that Mother Essie Halsey gave the church its name: St. James Holiness Church of Christ Disciples. In 1967, St. James was relocated to its current address. Bishop Garland E. Benson continued as pastor until he was called home to be with the Lord in 1984. The ministry was then placed in the hands of Elder Waverly Smith. St James had a passion for equipping new leaders by bringing them in, building them up and sending them out to be a blessing to another. Elder Waverly Smith believed if he were obedient to his calling, Then he and all leaders after him would continue the process of building new leaders. He faithfully pastored St. James until 2002 when he too, were called home to be with the Lord. St. James was then placed under the leadership of Elder Martha O. Williams To her, there was nothing more enjoyable than Kingdom Building! Her faithful service contributed to the changing of many lives and the saving of many souls. In April 2017 after counsel through prayer, Elder Williams ( with a peaceful heart ) relinquished leadership of St. James to Elder Gavin E, Wainwright Sr. July 2017, Elder Williams finished her course and now rest with the Lord. Pastor Wainwright continues to put his hands to the plow integrating, his ministerial leadership and work ethic daily. His moto is “Love God, love His word, and love His people.” Under the leadership of Pastor and First Lady Wainwright, God richly blessed St. James. The hard work and dedication of faithful member, ministry partners, and friends has been successful in supporting the restoration and renovation goals in St James. However, worldly challenges presented obstacles and served to strengthen our church resolve. The head of this house, Pastor Wainwright sought the direction of God and continued weekly worship services for 13 weeks post Covid-19 restriction. St. James held Sunday morning worship on the front lawn where Park- N- Praise allowed the opportunity to worship and praise God in the beauty of His creation. In June 2020, Covid restrictions were lifted, and indoor services were resumed with safety precautions in place as well as the addition of recorded services for those who could not attend.