St. James Catholic Church- Mount Rainier

Reviving Hope at St. James’ Parish

A remarkable journey of faith and community revival! St. James’ Parish, once a small mission church in 1908, later blossomed into a vibrant hub of faith and unity. Over the years, it faced trials as its school closed in 1978, and attendance dwindled. But in 2004, the Institute of the Incarnate Word breathed new life into the parish.

With unwavering dedication from religious sisters, seminarians, lay volunteers, and priests, a powerful pastoral plan emerged, centered on the Eucharist as the heart of parish life. Through grace and determination, the parish began to flourish once more, attracting a diverse congregation, including vibrant communities from Central America, the Philippines, and young Anglo adults.

Many programs began at this time, such as English as a Second Language, the Save Haven program for the homeless, and specially a notable increase in religious education programs for children, youth, adults, families, and finally the Blessed Carlo Gnocchi group for handicap children. In these past few years, the religious education program grew from 80 children a year to more than 700 hundred registered. And the Parish is still growing!