Ever wonder who the sprightly gentleman is who sits in the wheelchair accessible spot in the front of the church? His name is James Lou, known and greeted throughout the West Village as “Jimmy”.

Jimmy was born in New York, rowed crew in school, and worked in the family business in Chinatown. His wife emigrated from Hong Kong. They have a son, Gene, who lives in Georgia with his wife and 17-year-old son, Brandon. Their daughter lives in New Jersey with her husband and 8-year-old daughter, Phiona. (Coincidentally, Suzanne Culhane is a distant relative, and on an early visit to St. John’s was surprised to see “Uncle Jimmy” in the front row).

Jimmy has been a resident of the Village Nursing home since 1990, and has one of the few private rooms, on the 2nd floor. During nice weather, Jimmy “holds court” on the corner of 12th and Hudson Sts. His Village neighbors often stop to say “hi”, and Jimmy is always eager to greet children and their pets.

Jimmy started attending St. John’s in the early 90’s. Hazel Robinson, one of his first “escorts”, brought him to the Inquirer’s classes and Jimmy was received into the Episcopal Church at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. Now an official parishioner, Hazel cast Jimmy as a featured performer in some of St. John’s Arts productions. First as Simeon, in the wonderful story of Jesus’ presentation at the Temple; but soon Jimmy took on his most famous role--as God!

It is an honor and a privilege to escort Jimmy to St. John’s. His faith, cheerfulness and enthusiasm are an example to us all. No matter, how bad the weather (or our mood) Jimmy can brighten the day. There’s nothing quite like Jimmy’s vigorous singing—especially the “hallelujahs.”

Jimmy will be 86 on July 2. His family holds an annual celebration every year at Mama Buddha’s on Hudson St. and Jimmy’s parish family is always invited. His escorts through the years have included, Hazel Robinson, Pam Brown, Stuart Brier, Tim Boos, Patrick Merry, Susan Harrigan and her husband, Peter Benjamin. Everyone at St. John’s gets involved--Gerry Dilley, Kyle DeBlassio, Nelson Ulloa, Ellen Clark and Richard Plunkett are just a few of the people who jump in to help. Patrick Cheek always makes sure Jimmy has plenty to eat at coffee hour, and fills his pockets with “goodies” for the trip home. Recently, newcomers, Beth Rake, Gerry Martone and Kelli Taylor have signed on to see that one of our favorite parishioners is with us every Sunday morning.

But now there are even more people who need assistance getting to church. St. John’s is blessed to have wheel-chair accessible ramps and a Sanctuary that offers flexible seating. We just need more people willing (and able) to act as escorts. If you are interested in this valuable ministry, please see Pam Brown for more information.