About Our Parish

A vibrant Orthodox Christian community in Montgomery County, Maryland

Welcome to St. Thecla

We extend a heartfelt invitation to all—Orthodox and non-Orthodox alike—to visit our parish and experience our warm community. Whether you're exploring Orthodoxy for the first time or seeking a spiritual home, you'll find open arms and genuine fellowship here.

Our Community

St. Thecla's is a vibrant community of Orthodox Christians from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds and walks of life, with services primarily in English. We are united by our shared commitment to worshiping our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ according to the Faith once delivered unto the Saints (Jude 1:3).

Immediately following the Divine Liturgy every Sunday, we gather for a simple meal and fellowship. All visitors are warmly invited to join us and get to know our parishioners.

Our Clergy

Archpriest John Johnson

Parish Rector

Father John has served St. Thecla's faithfully, shepherding our community with wisdom, compassion, and dedication to Orthodox tradition. Under his spiritual guidance, our parish has grown into a warm and welcoming home for Orthodox Christians throughout Montgomery County.

Our Jurisdiction

St. Thecla Orthodox Church is under the omophorion (spiritual and ecclesiastical authority) of Metropolitan NICHOLAS of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR).

ROCOR is in full communion with the worldwide Orthodox Church, maintaining the ancient apostolic faith and traditional liturgical practices that have been handed down through the centuries.

The Orthodox Faith

The Orthodox Church is the original Christian Church established by Jesus Christ and His Apostles. For over 2,000 years, we have preserved the fullness of Christian faith and practice, unchanged and uncompromised.

Ancient Tradition

Our worship, theology, and practice remain faithful to the early Church, preserving the teachings of the Apostles and Church Fathers.

Living Faith

Orthodoxy is not merely historical—it's a vibrant, living encounter with Christ through prayer, sacraments, and community.

Sacramental Life

Through the Holy Mysteries (sacraments), we participate in God's grace and are transformed by His presence.

Worldwide Unity

We are part of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church, in communion with Orthodox Christians around the world.

Come and See

The best way to experience Orthodoxy is to join us for worship. You don't need to be Orthodox to attend—all are welcome. Come as you are, and experience the beauty and depth of ancient Christian worship.

Find Us

St. Thecla Orthodox Church

11510 Georgia Ave

Lower-level Annex

Wheaton, MD 20902