WELCOME TO THE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. JAMES

The Catholic Church of St. James grew out of a tiny band of committed Catholics who moved into Conway during the 1940's. From very early on it was a racially integrated church, a rarity in the South of that era. After many years of Masses celebrated in various locations by priests from neighboring towns, a church was built by their dedicated efforts, and dedicated in 1961 with Father Henry Burke as first pastor. Growth was slow until the 1990's, when South Carolina became a favorite retirement destination for many from the north, south and west. Young people followed as jobs were created, and then from the mid-90's a continued growth of Hispanic Catholics added to the community. Today there are about 1,000 families. Parishioners are involved in over 80 ministries within and without the parish. The friendly family spirit established by the first parishioners has been maintained as a special trait even with the growth in numbers and diversity.

Mission Statement

St. James is a Catholic Community of disciples of Jesus Christ that
. is centered in the Eucharist and nourished by Scripture and Tradition
. invites and welcomes all
. grows in unity, knowledge, and faith
. serves God and all people

Diocesan History Book

Catholic Diocese of Charleston-A History This book begins with a rich pre-diocesan history of the Spanish exploration bringing Catholicism to the Carolinas and Georgia. Bishop biographies, from Bishop England to Bishop Baker, and the history of 119 parishes and missions of the diocese make wonderful reading for all history buffs. It includes the detailed history of St. James and the Church of the Resurrection, in Loris. Stories of the arrival of the first priest, the first martyred priest by Indians, the first Bishop of the United States are clearly written in moving detail. The struggles with Indians, the British, the French and the local government are stories that describe the hardships that Catholics dealt with in surviving and growing in this diocese. This informative colorful book, with numerous photos, is a must read to have and save for your home library or coffee table. Books can be purchased at the church office during business hours for $40. They make wonderful gifts.