St James AME Zion Church

A safe place! A welcoming place! A loving place! Yes, You find God is present here! Ministry is real and relational and relative!

I have been going to St James for a couple months now. I have attended the 10am bible study and 11am worship. I love this church. The people are warm and welcoming, the preaching by Pastor Bussey is solid in scripture and challenges me, comforts me, and feeds my spirit. If you're looking for a church, this is one to definitely consider.

I love worshiping at St. James! I first came because I knew the pastor was pretty inclusive in her leadership, but now I go because it's a sweet, warm, and joyful congregation. They do the basics: they are centered in Jesus, committed to prayer, steeped in the Word, serving the community, mindful of current events. Their church life is pretty simple; they are not trying to do too much or be more than they are. I am thrilled that there is a black culture church on the Peninsula!

I truly enjoyed the worship service held at St. James in San Mateo. The sermon was inspiring, uplifting and timely. The music had a very nice mix of traditional and contemporary songs. The sanctuary was beautiful, peaceful and I could feel the presence of the Lord there. The congregation made me feel welcome and accepted.

As a pastor of a church I often find myself thinking if I was looking for a church what sort of church would I seek out. The Answer for me is simple. St James AME Zion Church - hands down! The combination of tradition and innovation speaks volumes of this well-organized, faithful body of worshipers. Their commitment to community and service is a part of their tradition and still they don't rest on their laurels. They are constantly seeking ways to further engage with the needs of others through mentoring programs, social justice advocacy, providing meals and more for the hungry and opening their doors for local organizations. I also enjoyed their small but anointed choir, their prophetic pastor and the radical hospitality. St. James is also a praying church which brings a peace in the place.