James Parkes was born on December 22, 1896, in England. He spent his formative years in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, in the Channel Islands, where he attended Elizabeth College. From a young age, Parkes showed a passion for knowledge and a strong sense of justice.
After serving in World War I, Parkes pursued higher education at Oxford University. It was during his time at Oxford that he began to delve into religious studies and theology. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for his future career as a religious leader and activist.
Upon completing his studies at Oxford, Parkes felt called to the ministry and was ordained as an Anglican cleric. His dedication to his faith was unwavering, and he sought to make a positive impact on the world through his work in the church.
Parkes became known for his tireless efforts to combat antisemitism and promote religious tolerance among Christians. He believed in the importance of understanding and respect between different faith communities. This belief led him to publish several important works, including The Jew and His Neighbour and The Conflict of the Church and the Synagogue.
In addition to his books, Parkes also contributed articles to various prominent journals, such as The Jewish Chronicle, The Observer, and Punch and Peace News. Through his writing, he was able to reach a wider audience and spread his message of peace and understanding.
James Parkes's legacy lives on through his commitment to fighting prejudice and promoting interfaith dialogue. He was a contemporary of other influential activists and authors, such as F.R. Scott, who shared his passion for social justice and equality.