Saint John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church Washington DC is one of the most dedicated and faithful parishes in the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. Its services are top-notch, featuring breathtaking choirs that sing with incredible power.
At the center of Washington, DC, this stunning church should not be missed when visiting this captivating United States city.
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History
St John the baptist russian orthodox church washington dc is one of America’s largest and most dedicated Orthodox parishes, founded in 1914 by faithful immigrants to this country who sought to create an authentic House of Worship.
Fr Benjamin Basalyga was the first pastor of this parish, serving until April 1916. He was followed by Rev Priestmonk Simeon Nikulnikoff and then Fr Elissey Lilikovich.
After these priests left the parish, Fr John Havriliak was appointed pastor of St John the Baptist Church. He became its longest serving pastor with a ministry spanning almost 40 years.
He also assisted the congregation in expanding their repertoire of sacred music, transcribing new songs and crafting original hymns himself. The parish’s choir was outstanding, with powerful singing resonating throughout the room.
Worship
St John the baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Washington, DC offers a wide variety of services. Their Saturday evening Vigil Service of Vespers and Matins (served in English) at 5:00 PM, Sunday morning Liturgy in English at 8 AM, as well as Divine Liturgies held each morning in Church Slavonic, the liturgical language used by Eastern-Slavic Orthodox Churches.
The parish also features an energetic choir that sings with incredible power. After every Divine Liturgy, guests are invited to enjoy a light meal and social hour; those interested in learning more about Orthodox faith can receive personalized instruction on the practice of their faith.
On the west side of Washington, DC lies Saint Elizabeths Parish – an absolutely breathtaking church not to be missed while exploring this captivating city!
Social Events
St John the baptist russian orthodox church in Washington DC offers a range of social events for people of all ages. These include Sunday Church School, Social Club, Choir, Altar Society, Jr ACRY (Youth Group), PTO and Senior Citizens Club.
Orthodox Christians from their homeland of Greece fled to America in search of a place to worship Almighty God according to their heritage and traditions. With this drive for creating an authentic House of Worship as their goal, they were driven to overcome all difficulties that life in America presented them.
They were guided through these trying times by priests trained in their home countries, such as Fr. Nicklai Telep who oversaw religious education and published booklets about Orthodoxy as well as English Matins services for children and adults alike. Furthermore, parishioners responded to calls to serve their nation during wars such as World War I and World War II.
Education
The church provides a comprehensive range of religious education for both children and adults, with classes held in both English and Russian.
St. John the baptist Russian Orthodox church in Washington DC operates an academy where people of all ages can learn more about Orthodoxy and its history. This academy is run by Fr. George Johnson, who possesses both a deep love for Christianity and an eye for beauty that cannot be taught in a classroom setting.
The Cathedral follows the Old Style Julian Calendar and offers services in both English and Russian. It belongs to the Archdiocese of Orthodox Churches in America and is administered by its Synod of Bishops.
