In 1904, a small church in our present ground was opened and dedicated to St. James the Great. Late Fr. William Alton was the first parish priest. He opened the doors for others to follow.

We give thanks for what we have received and ask for God guidance as we start the journey into the next 100 years.

We pray for the souls of those who are no longer with us but have served the parish and helped to build this striving catholic community. We remember particularly Fr. Charles Gaillard who was fatally attacked in St. Lucia in 2000 and Fr. Peter Diem who was killed in Vietnam in 2003. Like St. James both died for their faith.

In the late 1960s, the 'small church' was extended as it now stands to accommodate the influx of Catholics from Ireland, West Indies, Africa, Europe and Vietnam. We are a global community. No doubt the next 100 years will see more development.

Today on the feast of St. James the Great, we begin our celebration of 100 years of worship in the church. During the year different events will be organized. The highlight will be our end mass on 24th July 2005 when our Archbishop Kevin will be able to join us.

Please remember our present priest Fr. Tom Mc'Elhone and the parishioners in your prayers as we continue to praise and worship our Lord in St. James, Peckham Rye.