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 in the Fourth Week of Lent

When I was a child, I remember reading the 10 Commandments. I remember the “toughies,” which were honoring my mom and dad (even as a 28-year-old, I still struggle with this one), and not lying, and not stealing (candy from my older sisters). I remember looking at a few of the commandments and being thankful there were a few “easy” ones I knew I wouldn’t ever do: murder, coveting my neighbor’s wife (probably didn’t fully grasp the meaning of that one at the time), and worshiping idols. That idols one almost seemed like a freebie.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the true meaning of idolatry. In our current world, that doesn’t mean erecting a golden calf. In my everyday life, I see examples of people making—and worshiping—idols out of seemingly harmless items. Nice clothes, $35 spin classes, their partners, or even themselves.
I have “given something up” for Lent for the majority of my adult years, like sugar or swearing. However, this year, I wanted to focus on not making idols out of things or people that I’ve allowed to overtake my commitment to God and desire to follow Jesus’ teachings. I found within the first few hours of Lent that this was a far greater challenge than I thought it’d be when I was a young child trying to follow the rules. Even reflecting on the many items and people I’d allowed to distract me from God in my past brought me a harsh reality. Turns out, not making idols wasn’t the “freebie commandment” I thought it was. But with this awareness, I look to spend this Lent closer than ever to God.

Quin Woodward Pu

Appointed readings for today: Micah 7:7-9, Psalm 27:1, 10-18, John 9:1-38


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