Have you ever felt the weight of history beneath your feet? Right here before you stands Saint George Coptic Orthodox Church a testament to enduring faith and a vibrant community. This isn’t just a building. It’s a living story etched in stone and whispered in prayers.
Saint George Coptic Orthodox Church in Washington DC has deep roots. Its story begins in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A small group of immigrants from Syria and Lebanon settled in the area. They yearned for their own church. In 1908 they met. They decided to build a church. Mr Elias Joseph led the effort.
In December 1908 Father Dumaney from Tripoli Syria arrived. He held the first service in Mr George Hillow’s house. About 20 people attended each Sunday. Father Dumaney served for six months before transferring to Texas. For a few years various priests visited holding services. Then in 1912 Reverend Job Salloom arrived. He became the permanent priest. The community rented a room on 7th and Louisiana Avenue NW. This was their first permanent church home.
In 1913 the church received its first charter. The community grew. In 1920 they purchased property at 1009 8th Street NW. For 34 years this served as Saint George’s home. The Ladies Myrrh Bearing Society formed in 1921. Mrs Thomas Abdo was the first president. A Sunday school also began under Mrs Bahia Scordos’ direction.
The church continued to evolve. Father Salloom passed away in 1936. Metropolitan Anthony Bashir became the new Metropolitan Archbishop of New York. Reverend Benjamin Hoffiz became the new priest. The church was incorporated in 1938. The first choir formed in 1940 under Mr Harry Hier. In 1945 the current lot at 16th and Webster was purchased. This was under Mr William Dora’s leadership.
Through the years Saint George Coptic Orthodox Church faced many challenges. There were periods without a permanent building. The congregation worshipped at the Chapel of St Joseph of Arimathea at Washington National Cathedral. The church also saw many priests and leaders come and go each contributing to its legacy.
The current building stands as a symbol of resilience. It is a testament to the unwavering faith of the community. It represents the rich history of the Syrian and Lebanese immigrants who built it. It continues to serve as a vibrant center of worship and community in Washington DC. Saint George Coptic Orthodox Church is more than a place of worship. It’s a living legacy a story of faith perseverance and community. As you leave today remember this rich history. Remember the enduring spirit of Saint George.