Maitland – In 2026, St. James Anglican Church marks an extraordinary milestone—200 years at the heart of the Maitland community. Since its founding in 1826, the church has stood as a place of worship, gathering, and shared history, welcoming generations through its doors.
This bicentennial year is more than a celebration of the past. It is an invitation to the community to reconnect, reflect, and take part in a new chapter. A full calendar of events has been thoughtfully planned to honour the church’s legacy while creating opportunities for people to come together in meaningful ways.
The celebrations begin on April 19 with a special concert that sets the tone for the year ahead. The committee is pleased to welcome Ottawa-based musician Spencer Scharf, whose energy and talent promise an engaging and memorable launch to the anniversary year.
From there, the story of St. James unfolds across the seasons. On June 7, the church grounds and cemetery will come alive with a historic Morning Prayer service, reflections on the church’s past, and a guided tour that connects visitors to the people and moments that shaped this place. Loyalist re-enactors will present a ceremonial firing party in honour of the founders of St. James, adding a powerful and memorable tribute to the day.
Through the summer months, music will once again fill the church with a series of piano concerts currently in development, offering audiences a chance to experience the beauty of the space through live performance.
As the year moves into the fall, the celebrations build toward a special anniversary weekend. An evening concert on October 17 will feature acclaimed performers Kathleen Radcke and Matthew Larkin. The weekend continues October 18 with a commemorative service led by the Bishop of the Diocese of Ontario, along with a community luncheon that brings together parishioners, neighbours, and guests to mark this significant milestone in the life of the church.
Bicentennial Launch Concert – April 19:
The anniversary celebrations begin on Saturday, April 19 at 3:00 PM at St. James Anglican Church.
Audiences will experience the dynamic performance of Spencer Scharf, a one-man band known for his ability to blend folk, rock, and blues into a sound that is both powerful and deeply personal. Admission is by freewill offering, with a suggested donation of $10 to $20.
About Spencer Scharf:
Spencer Scharf is a familiar name on the Ottawa music scene, known for his engaging stage presence and impressive range as a multi-instrumentalist. Performing solo, he moves seamlessly between guitar, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, keyboard, and harmonica, creating a full and layered sound that draws audiences in.
Inspired by artists like Neil Young and Leo Kottke, his music crosses genres, combining the soul of blues with the brightness of bluegrass and the rhythm of Celtic traditions. His performances have taken him to stages across the region, including repeated invitations to Ottawa Bluesfest and CityFolk.
Critics and audiences alike have taken notice. He has been described as “a fantastic musician with a great repertoire…he never fails to put on a show,” while RBC Bluesfest has called him “an absolute genius.”
Beyond performance, Spencer is also a songwriter whose work reflects both personal depth and a hopeful outlook. His albums, including I Can’t Hide, Times of Change, and The Other Side, showcase his evolving artistry and connection to the world around him.
A Community Invitation:
As St. James Anglican Church steps into its third century, the doors are open to all. Whether attending a concert, exploring the church’s history, or simply taking a moment to experience the space, everyone is invited to be part of this milestone year.
For more information and event updates, visit: www.StJamesMaitland.com.
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