Our History

Founded on January 2, 1953

Parishioners at Saint James established in 1952 celebrated Mass at the Red Feathers Farm Building, Barry College Auditorium, at Saint Rose of Lima and at Holy Family churches before they built a provincial church, rectory and convent in 1952. They also formed the Ushers Club and the Women’s Club.

Under the direction of Father William O’Farrell, who served as second pastor from 1952 to 1954, the parish opened a 12 classroom school, staffed by Dominican Sisters from Adrian, Michigan and lay teachers. Parishioners built the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima and formed the Holy Name Society, Saint Vincent de Paul Society and the Parents’ Club.

The parish tripled in size by 1960 and needed a larger worship space. The new church was dedicated in 1963, and the old church building became the school library, a classroom, and a meeting place.

The multicultural community thrived: programs for preschoolers through to the elderly and numerous parish traditions were established in the 1970s. Parishioners continue to support parties, carnivals, picnics, Bible study, religious education classes, pre Cana conferences, and even blessings for pets.