Ancient Faith. Growing Mission.
Welcome to St. John the Merciful Orthodox Church in Washington, DC — a community rooted in 2,000+ years of Apostolic doctrine, worship, and charitable giving.
Sunday Service Times
9:15 AM | 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy
Location
3934 2nd Street SW, Washington, DC
Following the Example of St. John the Merciful.
Our parish is inspired by St. John the Merciful, known for his compassion and generosity toward those in need. His life reminds us that faith is not only something we believe, but something we live.
Here, worship and mercy go hand in hand. We gather to pray, to grow, and to serve — together.
Whether you have been Orthodox your whole life or are simply curious about the faith, you are welcome here.
Join Us for Divine Liturgy
The Divine Liturgy is the heart of Orthodox Christian life. Through prayer, following the teachings of the church, and Holy Communion, we are strengthened for the week ahead. Many who attend an Orthodox service for the first time describe it as entering a different world. Some have even said, "I felt like I had stepped into heaven rather than just another church service." Come and experience it for yourself, and join us afterwards for coffee and light refreshments.
What to Expect on Sunday
Sunday Hours: 9:15 AM
Divine Liturgy: 9:30 AM
Coffee and light refreshments following
Our Community is Committed to Charitable Giving, Fellowship, and Community Outreach
Whether your new to Orthodoxy, coming back to the faith, or you're looking for a regular Orthodox church to belong to, St. John the Merciful welcomes you.
Couples
Families
New to Orthodoxy
Singles
Returning to Orthodoxy
“God loves us more than a father, mother, friend, or anyone else could, and even more than we are able to love ourselves.”
Our Mission Statement
If You desire nobility, seek it not in blood, but in virtues, for this is true nobility.”
St. John the Merciful, Patriarch of Alexandria
In the spirit of St. John the Merciful, who dedicated his life to serving those in need, we are committed to helping people lead fulfilling and meaningful lives with Christ and to serving the community around us.
Our Story
Christ is in our Midst! I’m Father John Anderson, the parish priest of St. John the Merciful Mission. My background is in the US Army as an officer and chaplain, medic, as well as National Board Certified Counselor (NCC). I’ve served as an Orthodox priest since 1990 and have lived all over the world. Today, I’m thankful to call DC my home.
Along with my wife, Sabine, we enjoy meeting families, active duty and retired military, individuals, and those inquiring about Orthodoxy who visit our mission. Like many Orthodox missions, we offer a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Come and See
In a busy and uncertain world, it's comforting to step into an Orthodox Christian Church. You are at once surrounded by the sacred beauty of icons, the singing or chanting of spiritual hymns, and incense resembling prayers rising to heaven. There is no other experience like it.