St. James the Great

We strive to provide services of a varied nature, and offer a warm
welcome to all, regardless of where the individual is in their journey of
faith.

In 2008, after years of deliberation. detailed plans were drawn up to
re-order the west end of the church and provide a kitchen, toilet
facilities and a heating system. Around this time St James won the
Village Church For Village Life Award; organised by Sir Roy Strong
with Country Life Magazine. Queen Camilla (then Duchess of
Cornwall) presented PCC Members with a cheque for £5000 which
helped the fundraising for the development work.

In 2023/24, St James Church was extremely fortunate in being
granted significant Heritage Lottery Funding for necessary fabric
repairs and essential work to the roof. The flexible layout and facilities
in the church make community activities possible, and the
introduction of Wi Fi affords a warm workspace for anyone wishing to
use this invaluable facility in such a quiet and peaceful environment.
St James’ is designated a ‘Community Church’ serving the local and
wider community. It is described as inclusive and welcoming by all
who use it, either when attending Parish Services or by taking part in
the many varied secular all age activities and events enjoyed by so
many.

The church was the first to be awarded ‘Dementia Friendly Status’ in
Lincolnshire. Square Hole Club is run by the Charity, ‘Dementia
Support South Lincolnshire’. This wonderful, vital and unique charity
supports over 200 families caring for their loved ones living with
Dementia. When members meet in church they forge great
friendships with the church community and enjoy taking part in a
variety of planned fun activities.

In 2024 St James was given the National Churches Trust Volunteer
Award for England, and the UK Church Of The Year Award. The
Award Ceremony had special significance as it was held in the
Chapter House of Lincoln Cathedral.

The existing Parish church building dates from around 1300. The
north wall of the chancel is all that remains of this earlier church.
Aslackby Knights Templar preceptory was established towards the
end of the 12th century and the first recorded incumbent of St James
was Geoffrey de Temple. The rest of the church is 14th century with
some 15th century work. It was restored in the mid-19th century when
the chancel was largely rebuilt. Further restoration work was carried
out in the 1890s.