WELCOME TO SAINT JOHN’S CHURCH

Welcome to St. John's Church, Lafayette Square—a vibrant historic Episcopal church located across from the White House. We invite you to join with us for worship, Christian fellowship and outreach.

History

From our organization as a parish in 1815 to today, St. John's Church has provided a powerful symbol of faith in the heart of our nation's capital.

Mission

At St. John's, we believe Christ is calling us to be a renewed church in a changing world. In worship, education, parish life, and social action, we seek to expand our horizons by serving God by loving one another.

Clergy, Staff, & Vestry

Meet St. John’s diverse and engaging clergy, vestry and staff.

Directions & Parking

Located at the corner of 16th and H Streets in Northwest Washington, St. John's is near the McPherson Square and Farragut North Metro stations. Limited street parking is available; free valet parking is offered for certain hours.
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Dispatches from the 2019 Holy Land Pilgrimage – January 16

Day 2: The Judean Desert, Jericho, Nazareth

“Again the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor…” (Matthew 4:8)

We began the day overlooking the Judean Desert at sunrise. After time in prayer and silence, we hiked to the highest point where it was hard not to hear the words from Matthew. This is where Jesus wandered for forty days while being tempted by Satan.

“Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word…” (Luke 1:38)

The end of the day was spent thinking about Mary. We visited the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation followed by a walk through the rain to the Catholic Church of the Annunciation. The former encompasses Mary’s Well and the latter Mary’s home. Both churches claim theirs is where the angel Gabriel appears to Mary, telling her that she would conceive the Christ Child. 

As the day draws to a close, I can’t help but think about all the temptations of my life. How can I ask Jesus for help in saying no to those things that pull me away from a closer relationship with God? And how can I think of Mary and her courage? Saying yes to God can be a scary thing, but as Mary shows us, can be more rewarding than anything we can possibly imagine. 

Catherine Outten Olivo

Photos

Right: Photo 1 – Mary’s Well at the Greek Church of the Annunciation

Photo 2 – Mary’s Home at the Catholic Church of the Annunciation

Below – Group Photo in the Judean Desert


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