Looking for a church home in Oskaloosa?

Maybe you’re searching for a church home.

Maybe you’re looking for something different.

Or maybe… you’re simply seeking closeness to God.

Maybe you should visit St. James’ Episcopal Church.

I did—and here’s my story.

It was 1995 or 1996. My mother and I were “church shopping”—although we didn’t have to shop long. I think Mom had a sense of what she was looking for, but I wasn’t quite sure. I had become more of a Christmas/Easter churchgoer, and I mostly wanted a place where Mom could feel settled, even on her own if needed. (Dad didn’t often attend church.)

Although my siblings and I were baptized at St. James’ (thanks to Mom’s Anglican roots), we were raised and confirmed elsewhere here in town. But one Sunday, we decided to visit St. James’.

I had never really experienced an Anglican service, aside from a wedding I vaguely remembered from years before. My husband’s family is Catholic, so I figured I’d be fine with the formality—and Mom would surely remember the ropes.

We were warmly greeted at the door and handed a bulletin. The sanctuary was peaceful. People were either sitting quietly or on their knees in prayer. Mom whispered a few things to help me follow along as the service began.

And then… something unexpected happened.

I felt like I was part of the service—not just an observer. I found myself singing, joining in the prayers, listening intently to a sermon that actually stuck with me, a life-lesson type of message.

I received a blessing and took communion (real wine, by the way!). The congregation was small, but it felt right.

After the service, we were greeted again, asked to sign the guest book, and invited to stay for coffeetime and fellowship. I don’t remember if we stayed that first Sunday or the next, but I do remember how glad we were when we finally did.

Yes, we stand, sit, and kneel throughout the service—but it all becomes second nature. The Book of Common Prayer guides everything, and the leader announces page numbers. It may feel unfamiliar at first, but it didn’t take long before I appreciated its rhythm and meaning.

Another thing: no one’s judging you—whether you sit, stand, kneel, or what you wear. What matters is that you’re there.

This isn’t a church with widescreens or big choirs. There’s no children’s skit or flashy production. But there is a small congregation ready to welcome you quietly, sincerely—just as you are. Episcopalians don’t shout about their faith. It’s more like a hidden treasure… one I hadn’t even known I was looking for.

And here’s another twist: my dad, who never really went to church, started attending with Mom.

Sometimes he even skipped his Sunday golf game to go. They were both eventually confirmed, and a year later, so was I.

These days, nearly 30 years later, I pick up Mom (now 96!) from her assisted living home and take her to church with me.

I’m so grateful we found St. James’.

So maybe you are looking for something.

Maybe you just want to feel closer to God.

Maybe, like me, you’ll walk through the doors of St. James’ and find your own hidden treasure.

I assure you—you’ll be welcome. Anytime.

Lorraine Sinnott

Oskaloosa, Iowa