Welcome to Debre Tsion St Mary

Debre Tsion St Mary Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church stands as a beacon of ancient faith in our modern world. Our church family embraces the rich liturgical traditions, theological depth, and spiritual practices that have been preserved for nearly two millennia. We are committed to nurturing souls through the Divine Liturgy, fostering community fellowship, and serving those in need with the love of Christ.

Our History & Heritage

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church traces its roots to the apostolic era, when the Ethiopian eunuch was baptized by Philip the Evangelist. Our particular parish, Debre Tsion St Mary, was established to serve the Tewahedo Orthodox community and preserve our sacred traditions.

Named after the sacred mountain of Zion and dedicated to St. Mary, Mother of God, our church represents the deep connection between earthly worship and heavenly glory. We maintain the ancient liturgical calendar, celebrate the traditional feasts, and practice the mystical theology that has characterized Tewahedo Orthodoxy for centuries.

Our community serves as a spiritual home for Tewahedo Orthodox faithful and welcomes all who seek to experience the beauty and depth of Orthodox worship and community life.

Ethiopian Orthodox Church Heritage

Our Clergy

Kesiss Deresegne

Parish Adminstrator

Our senior priest brings decades of theological training and pastoral care to our community. Ordained in the Tewahedo Orthodox tradition, he guides our spiritual journey through liturgical worship and Orthodox teaching.

Kesiss Semehagn

Priest

Our priest assists in the Divine Liturgy and serves the community through various ministries. He helps coordinate church activities and provides support for our educational and spiritual programs.

Our Ministries

Divine Liturgy

Our central worship experience featuring the ancient Ge'ez liturgy, incense, chanting, and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist every Sunday and feast days.

Sunday School

Educational programs for children and adults to learn Orthodox theology, church history, Ge'ez language basics, and Tewahedo Orthodox traditions.

Community Outreach

Serving our broader community through food assistance, social support, and interfaith dialogue rooted in Orthodox social teaching.

Cultural Preservation

Maintaining Tewahedo Orthodox traditions, teaching Amharic language, celebrating cultural holidays, and preserving our rich heritage.

Worship Schedule

Sunday Divine Liturgy

7:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Traditional Tewahedo Orthodox Divine Liturgy with full choir and incense

Feast Day Services

Times Vary

Special liturgies for major Orthodox feasts including Timkat, Fasika, and Meskel

Saturday Preparation

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Vespers service and preparation for Sunday Divine Liturgy

Visit Our Church

What to Expect

Our Divine Liturgy is conducted in Ge'ez with some Amharic and English translations. Services typically last 2-3 hours and include beautiful chanting, incense, and communion. Visitors are welcome to observe and participate as they feel comfortable.

We encourage modest dress and ask that visitors remove shoes before entering the sanctuary, following Orthodox tradition. Our community is warm and welcoming to all who seek to experience authentic Ethiopian Orthodox worship.

Plan Your Visit

We'd love to welcome you to our church family. Contact us with any questions or to learn more about our Orthodox community.