“The welcome is real the community is genuine and the worship is designed to nurture and empower disciples.” That is what the average parishioner at Saint Peter’s in the Woods would probably tell you. Saint Peter’s in the Woods is a vibrant Episcopal church. It offers a warm and welcoming community. It provides diverse programs and services for all ages.
Founded in 1988 as a church plant by the Church of the Good Shepherd, Saint Peter’s in the Woods initially held services at Bonnie Brae Elementary School starting in 1989. It wasn’t until January 1998 that Saint Peter’s in the Woods moved to its current building in Fairfax Station. This marked a significant step in its journey.
In 2013 Saint Peter’s in the Woods achieved full parish status in the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. This means it became a fully independent and self-supporting parish. This milestone reflects the church’s growth and stability.
Saint Peter’s in the Woods is an intergenerational faith community. It includes young families students faculty and staff from nearby George Mason University military personnel retirees and long time members. With about 130 worshippers on a Sunday Saint Peter’s in the Woods maintains the energy and mission focus of a much larger congregation.
The clergy is known for their knowledge compassion communication skills and leadership. This contributes to a joyful spiritual community. The church’s choir ministry is also a significant draw. It provides a place for people to worship contribute and learn musically.
Many newcomers feel like they are part of the church family from the moment they walk in. The messages are engaging and easy to understand. The ministry reaches more people every week making Saint Peter’s in the Woods an exciting place to worship.
Saint Peter’s in the Woods completed a renovation project in 2023 and 2024 enhancing the worship space and improving accessibility and overall use of the building. This project demonstrates the church’s commitment to providing a welcoming and functional space for its members.
Whether you are looking for a place to worship a spiritual home or a caring group of people Saint Peter’s in the Woods offers much to its community. It actively supports and encourages its members. It invites everyone to witness God at work and join their journey of faith. Saint Peter’s in the Woods is rooted in historic faith traditions. But it embraces new ideas as it evolves into the church God calls it to be.