St James United Church of Christ 76 Main Street, Hamburg, NY 14075

"A very welcoming church. Traditional in many ways (hymns, responsive prayers, etc) but progressive theology that examines scripture in its historical context and how it applies today. Small but friendly congregation. Pastor personally greets visitors, which helps ease the discomfort of visiting a new church on Sunday morning."

"There are very few things I take as a positive from the pandemic, but the ability to virtually attend different church services is one of them! I watched the Easter Sunday service and the welcoming feeling I walked away with was awesome! I loved the kids time with the empty gum as a way to talk about the empty tomb. Pastor Paul has such a high and positive energy. Keep up the good work of spreading God’s love to ALL!"

"St James is what a church SHOULD be. All are welcomed, no one is turned away. Rather than being dogmatic, there is room for questions and discussion, but LOVE is the overarching value. St James is open & affirming, theologically progressive, and focuses on peace, justice, and creation care. Rev. Paul Werner gives relevant, edifying, and thought-provoking messages that call people to action to love their neighbors as Christ commanded. Beyond Sunday mornings, this church walks it's talk by being involved in many charitable, social justice, and community building activities. I am a former pastor and someone who has been deeply injured by institutional evangelical, mainline, and non-denominational churches; St. James UCC is a place of love and healing. The words said in each worship service are true: "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here!""

"St James is a positive , affirming , point of social action and justice in the Hamburg community. The congregation is warm and friendly when you visit. Rev. Paul is a soulful minister who is encouraging and welcoming to all. I'm so glad to have this congregation in my community. Come visit, you will be glad you did."

"I was visiting on holiday for the Easter weekend and attended the morning service. I was given a warm welcome by Pastor Paul himself. His sermon made me think and sparked my interest into different perspectives for ‘God has a plan’. I would highly recommend coming here as I could see the all inclusive love and acceptance without any judgement of all walks of life. If I lived here this would become my new church family and I intend to attend online."