St. Peter's Episcopal Church

Dr. James Rankine

Bishop Delancey

Started as an Episcopal Mission established by Bishop William Heathcote DeLancey, first bishop of Western New York in 1853, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church has since then flourished.

Dr. James Rankine – First Rector (1861-1896). “His life, his character, and his work richly entitle him to a place among the immortals.”

History of Geneva, J.H. Monroe, Humphrey Press, Geneva, NY 1912. Bishop DeLancey appointed Rev. Dr. James Rankine in 1861 to head the Theological Training School later DeLancey Divinity School at Geneva. Dr. Rankine conducted Sunday services near the present site of the church in a rude wooden chapel. Dr. Rankine intended to build a fine church. He spent several years gathering pledges and gifts and planned the structure with Dr. Richard Upjohn of New York City, an architect regarded as “The father of English Gothic in America.” The cornerstone was laid on May 13, 1868 with some 2,000 persons in attendance. The new church, constructed of red/brownstone was erected during the period of 1868–1870 and was consecrated as a memorial to Bishop DeLancey. A fine square tower housing a set of bells was later erected in 1878. This building sits at the corner of Genesee and Lewis Streets in Geneva.

Also a builder of souls, Dr. Rankine held classes at the divinity school and personally prepared over 100 men for ministry including several eventual bishops. Nearby Hobart College, then in crisis, called Dr. Rankine to be its president. During these years as rector, teacher, fund-raiser, college president as well as husband and father (enduring the death of four of his children), Dr. Rankine persevered.

Later Rectors

Rev. John Brewster Hubbs (1897–1914)
Rev. Kenneth Bray (1914–1924)
Rev. Howard Hassinger (1928–1944)
Rev. Norman A. Remmel (1944–1972)
Rev. Smith Lain (1972–1980)
Rev. James H. Adams (1981–2024)

Following the long and impactful tenure of the Reverend James H. Adams—who along with his wife Sue oversaw the restoration of our historic architecture and the growth of our community arts and outreach programs—St. Peter’s has entered a new chapter in its history. We are grateful for the steady guidance of interim rector Father Rich Towers, who served as our interim rector as we began our first leadership transition in many years.

This season of change has proven to be an engaging period of spiritual and organizational growth for our congregation, and we are excited to welcome our next rector with open arms as we continue to build upon our foundations of worship, community, and service.