About Us
Our History
Our story is one of faith and perseverance. It began with the faithful members of the Ethiopian Orthodox community in Houston, who first gathered for services at St. Mark Egyptian Orthodox Church. We were determined to find a permanent place of worship. Our community purchased 2.5 acres of land in December 1993. For two years, we held services in a small tent, a symbol of our unity.
Our vision became a reality on August 6, 1995, when the cornerstone was laid for our current church hall. On November 9, 1996, with the blessing of three archbishops, the church was officially opened. Our history is a testament to the power of community, and we invite you to be a part of our continuing story.
Our Belief
Below you will find the Five Pillars of Mystrey of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. These are the pillars that guide our faith.
The Mystery of the Holy Trinity
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church’s doctrine on the Holy Trinity teaches that God is a single, eternal being who exists as “one in three and three in one.” This single Godhead is shared by three distinct and co-equal Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They are inseparable and co-eternal, with the Father being the source from whom the Son is eternally begotten and the Holy Spirit eternally proceeds. The actions of one Person of the Trinity always involve the other two, demonstrating their perfect unity.
The Mystery of the Incarnation
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church’s doctrine on the Incarnation explains that God the Son took on a perfect human life to save humanity and restore its relationship with God. Conceived by the Holy Spirit in the Virgin Mary’s womb, Jesus Christ is a single, indivisible person who is both perfect God and perfect man, without any confusion of the two natures. He was born a sinless man and, through his suffering, death, and resurrection, achieved victory over evil, uniting both Godhead and manhood in his eternal life.
The Mystery of Baptisim
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church considers baptism a sacrament for salvation. Citing biblical passages, the church practices infant baptism for male babies at 40 days and female babies at 80 days, with the option to baptize sooner if a child is ill. Adults who believe and request baptism are also baptized. The practice is supported by various scriptures that highlight baptism as a means of becoming a disciple, receiving the Holy Spirit, and the forgiveness of sins.
The Mystery of Resurrection
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church’s belief in the Resurrection is founded on the teachings of the Bible, with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ as the central event. The Church holds that the bodies of both the just and unjust will be raised, and it cites scriptural examples of individuals being resurrected to support this belief. The faith in resurrection is a core tenet of the church, aligning with other ancient Orthodox churches.
The Mystery of the Holy Communion
Holy Communion in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church is a sacrament where believers receive the true flesh and blood of the Son of God, which is transformed from blessed bread and wine. The church teaches that by partaking in this mystery, followers are freed from sin and can achieve communion with God, thereby gaining invisible heavenly blessings and eternal life. This sacred act is based on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, and is considered the same sacrifice as the one offered on the cross. It is an essential step for salvation and the forgiveness of sins, and followers are called to be pure when receiving it.
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Become a Member
Becoming a member of our church is an opportunity to grow spiritually, serve others, and be a part of our family.
Your involvement helps us continue our mission and serve our community. Join us and find your place!