In 1987 two small parishes merged forming St Paul Orthodox Church. This wasn’t just a union of buildings. It was a coming together of two unique congregations. One group hailed from Brier. They had recently embraced Orthodox Christianity. The other was a small community meeting in West Seattle. St Paul Orthodox Church found its home in Brier. Plans were made for a new church building. But first the congregation rented space. They used St Thomas More Roman Catholic Church in Lynnwood. This temporary home served them until 1993.
Ground was broken for the new St Paul Orthodox Church building. Construction started in August 1993. Christmas Eve of that same year saw the first service in the new structure. This marked a new era for St Paul Orthodox Church. It was a time of remarkable growth. Membership surged. The growth reflected national trends within the Orthodox Church. Reports showed Orthodoxy as the fastest-growing faith in America during that period. This was a significant accomplishment for St Paul Orthodox Church. It showcased the community’s dedication and its spiritual appeal.
Under Father James Bernstein St Paul’s sponsored growth. A new mission parish was established in Arlington Washington. This was St Andrew Orthodox Church. It quickly became a thriving community. Later in 2004 St Paul’s played a key role in creating another mission. This one was in Snohomish Washington. It drew members from both St Paul and St Andrew’s. This new mission attracted people from neighboring communities as well. The growth and expansion of St Paul Orthodox Church is a testament to its enduring faith and commitment.
Father James Bernstein retired in 2017. Father Jeremiah a member of St Paul’s succeeded him. The church boasts two ordained deacons. They assist in other Antiochian parishes. Numerous lay members and service committees contribute significantly. They work together carrying on the parish’s work. St Paul Orthodox Church is more than a building. It’s a vibrant community. Its members strive to live near the church. This fosters full participation in parish life. St Paul Orthodox Church stands as a testament to the power of faith and community. It’s a place of spiritual growth and fellowship. This special place continues to thrive. It serves its community through faith and service.