Picture this a humble storefront on the corner of Kneeland and Tyler Streets. This unassuming building in 1907 was the birthplace of Saint John of Damascus Church in Boston. It was a far cry from the grand structure we see today. But within those walls a community was forged.
Saint John of Damascus Church wasn’t just built it was born from the unwavering faith of immigrants. These people primarily from Damascus Syria arrived in Boston in the early 1900s. They escaped persecution in Lebanon and Syria. Their faith was integral to their identity. They needed a church a place to worship and connect.
Initially women pooled their meager resources five cents a week to hire a priest from Rhode Island. They called themselves The Association of Spiritual Union. Their devotion laid the foundation for the church. This small group of women began holding regular prayer services in their homes. Their collective faith blossomed into a full fledged parish.
Thirteen men formed the Executive Committee of the Society of St John of Damascus. They chose the name to honor the Damascene saint known for faith and patience. The committee collected dues. They secured a priest Very Reverend Alexandros Atalla for services. He became the first pastor to celebrate Divine Liturgy.
The church moved to 68 Hudson Street. The first floor became living quarters for the priest. The basement served as the worship space. The city later condemned the building as unsafe. The congregation rallied raising funds for extensive renovations. The church was rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1916. It became the center of the community a place for social gatherings and religious observances.
The parish continued to grow. They outgrew the Hudson Street building. Years of fundraising and searching led them to Museum Road in the Fenway area. The new church was consecrated in 1956. It seated 300 people a significant upgrade from the humble beginnings. The new church included pews a welcome addition for the growing congregation.
The Museum Road church later faced another challenge. The proposed Inner Belt Highway threatened its existence. The parish moved again to Dedham Massachusetts. The current Saint John of Damascus Church is a testament to the resilience and faith of its community. The church stands as a beautiful expansive building in Dedham a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. Saint John of Damascus Church continues to thrive a vibrant community deeply rooted in history and faith.