Founded on May 30 1993 Debre Mehret St Michael’s Church began in a small room. About 30 parishioners gathered. It was the initiative of Komos Abba Melaku Getaneh. He is also known as Abune Fanuel. The Woodner Building on 16th Street housed the first services.
Initially lessons from the Gospel and liturgy of atonement were the focus. The congregation grew rapidly. A decision was made to establish a proper church. The selection of the Ark became crucial. Three names were placed in a ballot. Solemn prayers were held for seven days. Liturgical prayers followed on the seventh day. St Michael’s name was chosen. More prayers continued.
While searching for a building the Art of St Michael arrived from Ethiopia. On October 3 a colorful ceremony took place. It was five months after the first service. The clergy of St Mary’s Orthodox Tewahedo Church collaborated.
The first rented building could only accommodate 100 people. Membership doubled quickly. A larger space for 200 people was rented. It too became crowded. Parishioners stood in corridors and stairwells. They endured this for three years. It was despite cold winters and hot summers.
The building’s proprietors eventually rented the largest room. The monthly rate was $2500.00. Each time a larger space was found membership doubled. The church continued to grow. Discussions began about acquiring a permanent edifice. A fundraising program was instituted. A committee was formed. It collaborated with the Administrative Board. This covered Washington DC Maryland and Virginia.
A budget of $102000.00 was allocated. It was initially intended for religious vessels and ecclesiastical activities. It was used as a down payment on a mortgage. Parishioners made voluntary contributions. They followed St Paul’s teaching in 2 Corinthians 9:7. Within three months a large building was purchased. It cost $600000.00. It was located in Bladensburg. It was in the northeastern section of Washington DC. The down payment was $125000.00.
The building’s conversion began. A tender was posted for construction companies. Mr Ayalew Debebe offered a bid of $185000.00. He is a parish member and owner of Ayu Construction. He donated his expertise time and money. The Shrine was magnificently constructed. The church’s growth is a testament to God’s grace. It is also due to the clergy’s insight and the congregation’s love.