“Orthodoxy brought them here.” That’s the story of SS Peter and Paul Albanian Orthodox Church. In the early 1900s, Albanians sought new lives in the United States. They carried a deep Orthodox faith.
In 1915, Philadelphia saw the birth of its first Albanian Orthodox Church. It was named SS Peter and Paul. This church became a spiritual anchor for a growing community. Later some members founded St. John Chrysostom Albanian Orthodox Church.
SS Peter and Paul Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It is located at 9230 Old Bustleton Ave. SS Peter and Paul Church has a website. It is sspeterpaulphila.org. You can also call them. The number is 215-676-3311.
SS Peter and Paul Albanian Orthodox Church is part of the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America. Divine Liturgy happens every Sunday at 10:00 AM. Services are in English. The church extends a warm welcome. All are invited to join in prayer.
In the early fifties, SS Peter and Paul Church acquired cemetery lots. They did so with St. John Chrysostom. These lots were for parishioners. They are in Valley View. It is a section of Fernwood Cemetery in Yeadon, PA.
SS Peter and Paul Church thrived. Annual picnics bonded the community. They were organized jointly with St. John Chrysostom. These picnics drew Albanians from across the region. Attendence rose to 400-600 people.
SS Peter and Paul Albanian Orthodox Church continues to serve. It is a beacon of faith. It is a reminder of the Albanian immigrants’ journey. It embodies their enduring spirit. It connects them to their heritage and to God. This church preserves their legacy. It keeps their traditions alive. It shows how faith shapes community. It enriches lives across generations.