Our Church's History

MeskayeHezunan MedhaneAlem is part of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the six ancient Oriental Orthodox Churches that have faithfully preserved the apostolic tradition since the earliest centuries of Christianity. Rooted in Holy Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the teachings of the Church Fathers, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church emphasizes a life of prayer, sacramental worship, fasting, and love, guiding believers toward unity with Christ and one another.

Our parish was established on February 5, 2012, beginning with only a few devoted members who shared a deep longing to worship God together and preserve the Orthodox faith for future generations. In our earliest years, services were held in a very small rented chapel, a humble space that nonetheless nurtured strong faith, perseverance, and fellowship. As the congregation slowly grew, so did the sense of responsibility to build a stable spiritual community where worship, teaching, and fellowship could flourish.

Over the years, our church relocated to a larger church facility where we were blessed to serve for most of our journey. That space allowed our parish to grow spiritually and communally, becoming a place where families gathered regularly for worship, learning, and prayer. Recently, however, circumstances have required us to seek a new permanent home—a transition that has marked an important chapter in our story. In response, our congregation has come together in faith and unity, organizing community fundraisers and seeking support through various efforts such as selling icons, crosses, cultural clothing, and other handmade items. These efforts reflect not only our determination, but also the deep love and commitment our members have for the future of the church.

Today, MeskayeHezunan MedhaneAlem EOTC, located in Lithonia, Georgia, continues to serve as a spiritual home for believers of all backgrounds. We offer worship and services in English, Amharic, and Ge’ez, welcoming both Ethiopian and non-Ethiopian faithful alike. Christian education remains central to our mission, with Saturday and Sunday school programs and catechism courses that teach the foundations, traditions, and spiritual life of the Orthodox faith to children, youth, and adults.

Our purpose is to glorify God through reverent worship, to nurture believers in their spiritual growth, and to build a loving, Christ-centered community rooted in faith, humility, and service.

Guided by the richness of our tradition and a shared vision for the future, we strive to be a church where all are welcomed, faith is deepened, and the Gospel is lived out in everyday life.