Our Mission

Debre Menkirat Kidus Ammanuel and Rufael Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church exists to glorify God by preserving and proclaiming the Orthodox faith, administering the holy sacraments, and nurturing a spiritual, cultural, and moral foundation for the Ethiopian Orthodox community in the diaspora. Through worship, teaching, fellowship, and service, we strive to build a Church rooted in tradition and open to all who seek the grace and truth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Beginning: A Church Born in Prayer

Our journey began on October 7, 2012, when our parish offered its first spiritual services at the Helen Wilson Community Center on Franconia Road in Alexandria, Virginia.

Under the spiritual guidance of Abba Frehiwot (Komos) and by the grace of God, the Church laid its foundation with prayer, humility, and hope — offering spiritual teachings, prayers, and services in line with sacred Orthodox tradition.

During this foundational period, our community was officially named:

Debre Menkirat Kidus Ammanuel and Rufael Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church

A new chapter began in December 2012 with the arrival of Deacon Kassahun Tesemma, whose faithful service continues to this day. With his leadership, the church began to offer the full liturgical life, including the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

In October 2013, our parish moved to 6200 Indian Run Parkway, worshipping within the facilities of the Syrian Orthodox Church. Services were held regularly until 2019, when — through God’s providence and the dedication of our members — we secured a permanent spiritual home at:

4800 31st Street South, Arlington, VA

This sacred space is now the heart of our liturgical life, spiritual education, and cultural expression.

From weekly liturgies and feast-day celebrations to youth programs and community outreach, Debre Menkirat continues to be a place where:

• Faith is nourished

• Tradition is honored

• Love abounds

A Growing Church, A Permanent Home

Come Be a Part of Our Journey

💒 Our Foundation

What We Offer

A Living Faith and a Thriving Community

In addition to our liturgical services, the church provides:

• 📖 Religious education for children and youth

• ✝️ Sacramental services including Baptism, Confession, and Matrimony

• 💞 Charitable outreach and community volunteer programs

• 🎉 Fellowship events that celebrate our Ethiopian language, culture, and Orthodox identity

“Christ is the cornerstone of our Church, and our members are the living stones built upon that holy foundation.”

Through the prayers, offerings, and faithful service of our members, the mission of Debre Menkrat continues to flourish in love and truth.

“And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” — Acts 2:47

We welcome all who seek a deeper relationship with God through the timeless teachings and holy mysteries of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Join us as we grow in unity and service, rooted in the rich legacy of our forefathers and guided by the light of Christ.