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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Friday after Ash Wednesday

We think of Lent as a time of sackcloth and ashes, of penitence and fasting.  And indeed, that is often part of our spiritual discipline. But it is not–should not–be an end in itself.  Lent is not a series of boxes to be ticked; rules to be followed.

As the Prophet Isaiah tells the people of Israel in today’s reading when they complain that God does not acknowledge their “humble” fasting: “Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day, and oppress all your workers. Look, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to strike with a wicked fist. Such fasting as you do today will not make your voice heard on high.” To use a modern word, Lent is not about performative actions, but inward preparation, repentance and change.

As Isaiah goes on to say: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them…”

This Lent, as we see injustice, oppression and need, both immediately around us and far away, our fasting and preparation should not be turned inwards, focused on ourselves, but turned outwards, focused on our fellow humans.

Peace,

Will+

The Rev. William Morris

Assisting Priest for Engaging Local Communities

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