St James’ Church upholds the Catholic tradition within Anglicanism, in contemporary and liberal forms, generally in accord with ‘Affirming Catholicism.’ As a conscious descendent of the Tractarian and Oxford movements, St James’ upholds the historical continuity of the church, episcopal order, and the high doctrine of the sacraments. In a desire to convey the beauty of holiness, St James’ celebrates these beliefs with elaborate ritual, ceremonial, and fine music. But our essential understanding of worship leads always to the sacramental life founded on the Gospel.