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History

John's Church, 1800's

Christ is made the sure foundation, Christ the head and cornerstone,
chosen of the Lord, and precious, binding all the Church in one;
holy Zion's help for ever, and her confidence alone.

Hymn 518, The Hymnal 1982

 

Saint John's Episcopal Church, Georgetown Parish, was the first Episcopal Church in Washington to be established west of Rock Creek in 1796. Since then it has carried on a proud and dedicated ministry of mission and service to the Washington community.

 

Founded by early Georgetown business and social leaders, among them Francis Scott Key and Thomas Jefferson, the building was designed by the architect of the Capitol, Dr. William Thornton. Recent additions to the buildings include renovations of the church building (providing office, worship, and preschool space), plus a beautifully vaulted atrium connecting the church to Blake Hall. Through the efforts of St. John's parishioners over the years, two other Episcopal churches in Georgetown were founded: Grace Episcopal Church and Christ Episcopal Church.

 

Of the 26 rectors who have served St. John's, two have become bishops and many of our former clergy and seminarians have gone on to serve the church in a variety of highly responsible positions.

 

Our Priest-in-Charge, The Rev. Dr. Albert Scariato, has served at Saint John's for six years.

 

St. John's Georgetown     St. John's Georgetown

                       

St. John's Georgetown     

                                                                               History of The Chapel of the Carpenter (PDF)