Tower Bells

The Tower Bells of St. James Episcopal Church

The Patton Memorial Tower supports a ring of eight tower bells hung in the English style for change ringing.  Change ringing requires one person to ring each bell.  The tuned set of bells is rung in a series of notes that change in patterns rather than as normal melodies.  The bells call worshipers to Sunday services, and are rung for other church events such as weddings and funerals.  They are also rung on occasion for public events.

Change ringing originated in England over 400 years ago, and is very much a part of the Anglican tradition.  England has thousands of towers, North America has about 50, and other former British colonies have some.

The left picture above shows some learners in the ringing room, and the picture with bells shows them in the mouth up starting position.

Ringing provides a distinctive way to serve the church. Participation also becomes a source of friendships and fellowship. The concentration required for ringing demands working the gray matter, and provides a wonderful diversion from the cares of the day. Almost anyone can learn to ring, with the primary requirement some physical coordination -- comparable perhaps to learning to ride a bicycle. With proper technique ringing doesn't require a great deal of physical effort. Mastering the art of ringing takes learning the skills of basic bell handling, then practice and focus to ring a bell at the right moment to maintain the steady cadence of quality ringing.

We are always interested in new ringers joining us. If you are interested in visiting the tower or instruction in ringing the bells, please contact us! Visitors, guests and prospective ringers are always welcome!

Service ringing is Sunday 10:45 to 11:10 AM, practices Monday 7:30 to 9 PM and Saturday 10:30 to 12 noon.