The First Church

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If you have ever visited St. James Parish Church, then you will definitely understand why this church and its grounds are referred to as "God's Acre". The grounds are so pristine and picturesque. I actually asked my partner if it seemed odd to be taking family photos in a cemetery, but it was just too beautiful to resist.
The first church to be established in Barbados, the originally wooden structure was erected in 1628. 
Why St. James? Well, it is a stone's throw away from Holetown where the first English settlers set foot on this idyllic soil. As such this church is a storehouse of early Barbados' who's who. Tombstones dating back to the 1600s litter the yard's perfectly manicured lawn. Many of the original settlers and various noted Barbadians were laid to rest within the Church and its yard. The dates on the grave stones, vaults and memorial plaques reflect this history.



I took the drive down to the church today after a friend informed me that its bell shares a similar history with that at Harrison College, being made by the same company.........back in 1696!
 Inscribed on the back end of the bell are the words "God bless King William".
It fell from the belfry in 1881 and was badly cracked but a benefactor donated a new bell. However, considering its historic value the old one was retained as a monument, which predates the American "Liberty Bell" by 56 years.
As stunning as the exterior may be, the church's interior is a rich walk down history lane. Because the church is small, the dark mahogany pews and fixtures, the giant organ, the unique chandelier, sporadic pieces of art work and intermitent graves underfoot, lend to an overall feel of antiquity.
The organ was built at a cost of 320 pounds and arrived in January 1876.
Ethiopian Hunger Veil 
....... its and description.

Exquisite examples of stain glass work.
Documents related to slavery which were unearthed in the cemetery.
This picture does no justice to the spectacular fiber optic chandelier at the rear of the crucifix.

I was very impressed by the fact that the church has an area dedicated to beauty and elegance which stands out quite notably in the grounds


This was such a great outing. I implore you to make time to visit. Til next time..tah tah from St. James Parish Church.

I leave you with a family pic.


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