“Since its establishment in 2005 Grace Downtown DC Network remains committed.” That’s how it all began for the Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant community. It is dedicated to serving the needs of Washington D.C.
The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington’s story starts with a vision. Decades of prayer paved the way for its formation. McLean Presbyterian Church in Virginia and Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City united. They sought a pastor to lead a dedicated group in D.C. That group would start a new church.
In the summer of 2003 Glenn and Meg Hoburg moved to D.C. Their family grew quickly. The community blossomed to 350 members. Weekly attendance reached 500. This diverse group dedicated themselves to living out God’s grace in Washington, D.C. Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington.
From the beginning the Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington dreamed big. They envisioned a network of churches throughout the city. This dream materialized in 2010. They launched the Grace DC church network. Grace Meridian Hill became their first sister congregation. It served the Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, and Petworth neighborhoods. Rev. Duke Kwon pastored this new church.
The network expanded again in 2013. Rev. Russ Whitfield and members from Grace DC planted Grace Mosaic. Grace Mosaic took root in upper northeast D.C. Grace Downtown welcomed Rev. Mike Park to their pastoral team at this time.
Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington is outwardly focused. It seeks to be a cross-cultural community. The community wants to experience God’s kindness. Then it wants to extend that kindness to workplaces and neighborhoods. The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington also wants to reach the city and the world. This church believes faith applies to every aspect of life. Relationships. Personal transformation. Vocations. Volunteering. Even urban renewal.
The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington is inwardly growing. It is outwardly serving. The church’s activities are largely member-led. Pastors, elders, and the diaconate provide leadership. But they primarily equip and empower members. They care for one another and their neighbors.
The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington extends a warm welcome. Anyone is welcome to join Sunday services. All are welcome at any of their events. Whether you’re a follower, seeker, or skeptic, you’ll find a place here.
The vision is clear for Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington. They strive to be neighbors who make the city healthier. This vision stems from the life of Jesus Christ. He cared about issues affecting all humanity. He showed God’s grace to specific people. He fed the poor and healed the sick. He forgave the guilty and befriended the outcast. His global concern never compromised his local concern. The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington follows this example.
The Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington doesn’t want to simply exist in the city. It does not want to live in a spiritual ghetto. They believe transformed lives lead to a transformed city. The members and leaders want the church to be an engine. An engine for flourishing and renewal for all neighbors. Grace of God Presbyterian Church of Washington is still committed to being “in & for the city”.