There is ample parking and handicap access to Saint James the Greater Catholic Church. Just to the left of the front double glass doors are two date markers. The first one reads, “Praised be the Lord (Ps 18,4a) 50th Anniversary July 25, 1998” and the other ones is “St. James Catholic Church AD 1948”. Three stained glass windows face the front of the church and a large cross that tops it off. There is a small foyer that has an abundance of information and stairs that lead up to the balcony and down to the basement where the kitchen and reception area are located. Entering into the church and immediately to the left is photo of
Two sections of pews are divided by one main aisle and two side aisles. The pews have engraved crosses that face the aisles. The music area is to the left of the altar and just below the statue of their Patron Saint James the Greater. Spanning right from the music area is the podium with chairs behind. The altar area is draped in green since it is still Ordinary Time. There are two candelabras with three white candles on each. Behind the altar table is an elegant crucifix with a brass colored tabernacle just below. To the right of the tabernacle is the Sanctuary Lamp just next to an exquisite statue of Joseph and the statue of Mary is on the other side of the crucifix. Two religious green fabric panels frame out the altar. There is an ornate wooden awning above the crucifix and statues. A cry room can be seen on the right wall of the altar. Our Lady of Guadalupe print is to the right of the altar and facing the congregation. A door to the Sacristy is to the left of the altar table. From the altar you can see the balcony in back of the church and a lovely carving of Jesus that is on the wall above the entrance.
In back of church is the most amazing prayer garden with an almost life-size crucifix with Jesus and a round-about walk with Stations of the Cross. I feel blessed to have been a part of this evening’s mass celebration in Vernal. Father Manuel De Jésus Ceron and the parishioners of Saint James the Greater Catholic Church are charming and friendly. Saint Benedict said that real hospitality is to “Let everyone that comes be received as Christ.” May God bless you for your hospitality and warmth.