“Imagine Serbian immigrants seeking solace after World War II. That’s how St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church began. This wasn’t just a building. It was a haven. It was a community born from displacement.
St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church has a rich history. Its roots trace back to 1961. Archimandrite Dr. Firmilijan Ocokoljic and Dr. Nikola P. Nikolic spearheaded the efforts. They envisioned a spiritual home for Serbian immigrants. These immigrants had journeyed to the Washington D.C. area.
The first Divine Liturgy took place in an unexpected location. It was celebrated in the chapel of American University. The date was March 26, 1961. Following the service, a pivotal decision was made. The congregation resolved to establish a parish. It would be dedicated to the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke. Bishop Dionisije approved the formation of this new parish soon after. St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church formally incorporated on May 11, 1961.
For a while, St. Luke lacked a permanent home. The National Cathedral extended its hospitality. Every two weeks, Archimandrite Firmilijan conducted services. These services were held in the Cathedral’s chapel of St. Joseph of Arimathea.
A schism in 1963 caused turmoil. The parish divided. A portion joined the Free Serbian Orthodox Church. This group later acquired property in McLean, VA, in 1971. The remaining members stayed with the Patriarchal Church. They faced a period of uncertainty for four years.
Bishops Firmilijan and Sava played a crucial role in reviving the parish. In 1968, Fr. Dragoljub Malich became the first parish priest. Liturgies were held in St. Francis Chapel of the All Souls Episcopal Church.
In 1974, a significant step was taken. A house was purchased on 16th Street NW. Parishioners transformed it into a church. Bishop Sava consecrated the church in April 1974.
The late 1990s brought growth. The parish outgrew its facilities. A building fund was established in 1997. In 2001, the current property on River Road in Potomac, MD, was acquired. The old property in Washington D.C. was sold.
Construction on the River Road property concluded in 2014. The first Divine Liturgy was celebrated on the Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross. Bishop Mitrophan blessed the new church that November.
In March 2020, His Holiness Irinej visited St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church. He was accompanied by Bishops Jovan and Irinej.
Various ministries thrive within St. Luke. The Circle of Serbian Sisters is indispensable. The Sunday Church School is fundamental. Serbian School “Nikola Tesla” promotes Serbian language and culture. The St. Luke Children’s Choir introduces spiritual and secular music. The Adult Folklore Group “Prelo” preserves Serbian folklore dances. The Serbian Singing Society “Lira” enhances liturgical services. SerbFest D.C. fosters fellowship and promotes Serbian culture.
St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community and perseverance. It represents a spiritual anchor. This anchor connects Serbian immigrants to their heritage. It enriches the cultural tapestry of Washington D.C.”