History
1902 - 2023
The Parish of Lower Umgeni was established in the 1870’s. The first St James Church was a little wood and iron building from Sea Cow Lake, which was built in Innes Road. When a priest arrived in 1902, service to the community could begin on a regular basis.
The foundation stone of the new St James’ Church was laid in December 1902. Over the years the building grew into the beautiful church we can appreciate today, with the magnificent stained glass windows and atmosphere of serenity and peace. The Rood screen and oak choir stalls were dedicated in 1920, while the St Helena Chapel was built in 1923. There has been considerable adaptation over time.
Our magnificent pipe organ, recently refurbished, was dedicated in April 1912. The exquisite tones of this organ have enhanced praise and worship for over a century now, and have brought delight to many who have attended services, weddings, funerals and celebrations.
The Memorial Garden was established in 1991, and members of the Parish who have passed away may have their ashes interred there. There is also a Wall of Remembrance, with commemorative plaques on it. This area is a place where families and friends can remember their loved ones. The garden is indigenous and most attractive. A sad sign of the times is that the pot plants, which contributed to the lush environment have been steadily pilfered during 2022. Historic King’s House, now Dube House, was where members of the British Royal Family took up residence when in Durban, and they would attend services at St James Church.
In 1947, Princess Elizabeth, now the Queen of England, attended a service with her parents, the King and Queen of England, and her sister, Margaret. There have been a number of illustrious visitors over the years, and there was much excitement in 1998, when President Nelson Mandela attended the wedding of Chief Albert Luthuli’s grand-daughter, Lindiwe Ngakane, to David Gadd at St James’.
St James has continued to serve the Morningside community and others, through two World Wars, during times of civil unrest and surges in crime, throughout the unprecedented Covid pandemic, during which daily meditations and weekly services were offered on-line. We remain a sanctuary for those seeking God, feeling disheartened, or needing a spiritual home.