A method is described that involves processing a Web services message within an object oriented runtime environment. The processing involves executing a plurality of protocols to support a Web service that the message pertains to. Each one of the protocols perform one or more operations that contribute to a different part of the processing. The executing involves a first of the protocols receiving from an object WS Addressing information retrieved from the message's header. The executing also involves the first protocol providing the WS Addressing information to a second of the protocols. The executing also involves the second protocol providing the WS Addressing information to at least one of: a third protocol of the protocols; a component that performs an endpoint method of said Web service; software that identifies a new transport level destination address for said message.