Patronal Festival Report - St James, Cameley

St James, Cameley
Patron saint: St James
Festival date: 27 July

St James, Cameley held a memorable Patronal Festival Evensong that drew one of the largest congregations since Christmas. A local choir and organist led the music, complemented by a visiting professional singer from Germany who offered solos before and after the service. The liturgy was supported by printed service sheets explaining the history and shape of Choral Evensong, helping newcomers engage with the tradition.

Advertising across local parishes, social media and a Mendip-wide magazine brought in many visitors, and the atmosphere after the service was warm and communal, with most of the congregation staying on for refreshments. The event was a resounding success and there is strong enthusiasm to repeat it next year. The parish expressed sincere thanks for the grant that helped make it possible.

The celebration also drew attention to the urgent conservation project for the church’s exceptional mediaeval wallpaintings, described by Betjeman as belonging to a “Rip van Winkle church”. Fundraising continues to secure these rare works, with more than half the required total already pledged.