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.
2020 Update.jpg

April 4, 2023, Tuesday in Holy Week

Waiting is hard. Whether it’s waiting in traffic, waiting in line, or waiting for test results, there is something about waiting that is not always ideal. We find ourselves in a period of waiting during Holy Week: We just finished Palm Sunday and our next official observance comes in a couple days on Maundy Thursday. In this waiting, we find ourselves mentally and even spiritually preparing for what Holy Week will provide.

During Holy Week, we follow the path of the cross and the events that lead to it: Jesus triumphant. Jesus in loving service. Jesus betrayed and arrested. Jesus the source of derision. Jesus beaten. Jesus breathing his last breath. We learn much about Jesus and his journey to glory through the times when he is waiting. When Jesus waits to make his procession before the palms. He chooses a lowly animal to ride on, showing us he is not only a king but a Messianic King. As Jesus waits for his betrayal and arrest, he is at table with friends and serves them. He even washes their feet, a gesture usually performed by a servant. Next, in his waiting, Jesus prays. Even during the crucifixion, Jesus waits for his last moments on the cross, mostly in silence.

Waiting is hard. We see however the fulfillment of the prophecy of our Lord through that waiting. In waiting for death, Jesus, creates opportunities to pray and to love. As we wait for the rest of Holy Week and then Easter, I wonder how we might do better with the time that we have while we are waiting. Let us be thoughtful. Let us engage in acts of servanthood. Let us pray. Let us love.

One Love,

The Rev. Shawn Evelyn, Associate for Parish Life

Links to the appointed readings and prayer for today:

 


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