Photo Album

To see individual photos and videos, click the following link:

Greetings from Family

A greeting from Pastor James' maternal grandparents

A word from James' parents, James & Lois Stephens

Some memories from Uncle Jim & Aunt Pat Pollard

From Jen Rene Cowden

Dear Pastor James,

On Your Big "50th" Birthday Celebration!

Vincent and I are very happy to call you our friend and to write you this message to express our fondness for you.

As our Pastor you exceed well beyond what is called of you. You race towards the finish line with a strong zeal for God which is seen in your walk on the platform of our church, but even more so seen when you think no one is watching.

As a friend, you are a phone call away and on many occasions you've not failed to come and help us in our times of need. We know you have always prayed for us.

Thank you for everything. We are truly blessed to have you as a friend.

With Love, The Cowden Family
Vincent, Jen Rene', Michael and Samuel

Operation Surprise--Mission Accomplished

On behalf of Pastor James' and all his family, thanks to everyone who helped make the surprise birthday party such a wonderful success. A special thanks to Jen Rene & Vince and Pam & Roger Clay for the wonderful decorations and refreshments--and thanks to everyone who helped keep it a surprise!

Your words of encouragement were very touching and meaningful. Thanks for your love. The blog is still open if you'd like to add your thoughts and share memories.

It wasn't rocket surgery

It wasn't rocket surgery that August Sunday in 1999.  I had come over from Renton to visit my daughter, Shari, to celebrate her birthday and my granddaughter, Alicja's birthday.  Shari asked if I would like to come to church with her. I hadn't been to church for anything other than weddings, funerals and the occasional "drop in to see if anything has changed" in over 30 years.

It was hot in the little church in Kittitas, and I was just observing.  There was a sermon delivered by you, Pastor James.  I don't remember what you said but something happened.  On the drive home to Shari's house I began to cry and couldn't stop.  I was so very painfully aware of how empty, guilt-ridden and shame-driven my life was.  I didn't want that any more.  I wanted that full-to-the-brim feeling of hope and that promise of peace.  I wanted that freedom from on-going guilt and shame.  I don't remember the words you said but my heart was singing through the release of tears.  I was aware of being a black-hearted sinner and I was happy because confessing that and asking Him to be my LORD made me free.

Thank you for being His willing vessel that hot August Sunday.

Know that God loves you and per Ephesians 5:1-2 NIV, as an imitator of God, I love you in Christ Jesus. 

Happy Birthday, James

Your sister in Christ,

Mary Hoffman

From Reba Skinner and Family

I just want to say how much I appreciate Pastor James

We had 2 deaths in our family this year. Pastor James made a special effort to really get to know them before they passed and made their funerals very personal. He was so very supportive to the family.

Thank You Pastory James and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Reba Skinner and Family