The Preacher in Sneakers: Faith, Friendship and ‘80s Karaoke at St. James

By Robert Brune

      On a Sunday morning at St. James Church, Father Paul Moore stepped before the congregation wearing Chuck Taylor high top Converse sneakers peaking out from under his robe and opened his sermon with a spirited impersonation of Pee Wee Herman. Within moments, laughter filled the church as the Episcopal priest made it clear this was going to be a service rooted equally in joy and reflection.

       Father Paul, while he has a creative way to delivering his message, assured to room,“I hope you all have fun and faith should be fun. Church should be a place where you feel alive and known.” He continued by reminding parishioners that faith is not solely about solemnity. “Of course, there’ll be moments of quiet and reverence and honoring God in that way as well,” Moore said. “But just remember that you want our God also in the way you laugh.”

      The Sunday 10 a.m. gathering carried that spirit throughout the morning. Humor, music and compassion blended naturally inside the church as members of the congregation shared stories, conversation and song during the final Sunday of Eastertide. Jesse Moore introduced a moving rendition of Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” offering insight into why the song felt especially meaningful for the service. “Inspired by the tradition in Africa that entreats him, that of writing love songs, so that they can be heard as the love of God,” she explained. “He felt that was lacking in the Western lyrics, so he thought he would try to sing images.”

       Moore reflected on the spiritual symbolism behind the song’s title and lyrics, speaking about the way human connection can reveal something sacred. “The eyes are clearly a focus point for the soul,” she said. “You might speak to God by looking at someone’s eyes, who loves you. Or you love them.”

      Her introduction encouraged the congregation to consider faith not only through church walls or tradition, but through compassion and genuine connection with others. “So let’s say worship with God who truly sees us,” she said, “while asking for his vision, for our lives, to see what he says now in our loved ones, and in the whole world.”

     The central sermon theme, “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” focused on humanizing people during a period of cultural division that often encourages conflict over understanding. Father Paul invited two friends and members of the congregation to the front of the church for an open and intimate conversation about past personal difficulties. The exchange emphasized humility, listening and compassion rather than judgment. The discussion resonated with many in attendance as the service balanced humor with thoughtful reflection about friendship, empathy and community.

      Following the service, the atmosphere shifted into celebration as parishioners migrated into the main hall for lunch and an afternoon of ‘80s karaoke. Familiar songs echoed through the room while members of the congregation applauded contestants dressed in themed outfits inspired by the decade. Awards were handed out for several categories of best ‘80s attire, adding another layer of fun to an already lively morning.

     The gathering reflected a church community eager to create connection both inside and outside worship itself. Between karaoke songs, shared meals and laughter among neighbors, the event became more than a Sunday service. It became a reminder that fellowship can thrive through sincerity, humor and kindness. At St. James Church, faith on Sunday morning came with sneakers, music and a sense of welcome that encouraged people to simply be themselves.