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Taize Service | April 1, 2026

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 20:24:24 GMT

Taizé for Lent | April 1 | Auditorium | 7:30 p.m.

The Taizé Community in France is an ecumenical monastic community that celebrates Christ together with music and prayer. Join us in the auditorium for this special service filled with the music of Taizé and prayers for the season.

Holy Week & Easter Worship Schedule 2026

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:32 GMT

Holy Week and Easter Worship Schedule

March 29 – Palm Sunday

8:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

10:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

March 30

7:30 a,m. – Holy Eucharist | Chapel

March 31

7:30 a,m. – Holy Eucharist | Chapel

April 1

7:30 a,m. – Holy Eucharist | Chapel

12:05 p.m. - Holy Eucharist | Chapel

7:30 p.m. – Taize Service | Auditorium

April 2 – Maundy Thursday

7:30 a,m. – Holy Eucharist | Chapel

6:15 p.m. – Agape Meal | Auditorium

7:30 p.m. – Holy Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar

8:30 p.m. - Prayer Vigil

April 3 - Good Friday

7:30 a.m. – Morning Prayer | Chapel

12 noon – Good Friday Liturgy with St Paul’s, The Rev Ruthanna Hooke, preacher (this service is at Christ Church)

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. – Walk the Labyrinth | McMurray Commons

4:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – Family Stations of the Cross in Nature | Jones Point Park

7:30 p.m. – Good Friday Liturgy | Watch livestream

April 4 - Holy Saturday

10:00 a.m. – Holy Saturday Liturgy | Chapel

7:30 p.m. – Easter Vigil

April 5 - Easter Sunday

7:00 a.m. – Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. – Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. – Family Service | Auditorium (Easter Egg Hunt to follow in churchyard)

11:15 a.m. – Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. – Holy Eucharist

Lent 2026

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:24:27 GMT

Lent 2026

In the western church the forty days of Lent extend from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday, omitting Sundays. The last three days of Lent are the sacred Triduum of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Today Lent has reacquired its significance as the final preparation of adult candidates for baptism. Joining with them, all Christians are invited “to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God's holy Word” (BCP, p. 265).

Whoever you are and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here.

For a list of our Lenten offerings please visit our Lent, Holy Week & Easter page .

Ash Wednesday | February 18, 2026

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:29:43 GMT

Ash Wednesday 2026

February 18 | Service of the Word and Imposition of Ashes

Worship at Christ Church

7:30 a.m., 12 noon, 7:30 p.m.
Ash Wednesday Family Service: 5:30 p.m.

Choral Evensong | March 1, 2026

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:26:20 GMT

Choral Evensong | March 1

On March 1, the Christ Church Choir will sing the next Choral Evensong at 5:00 p.m. The service will feature the music of Herbert Howells, one of the most important British composers of the 20th century. The service will be accompanied by organist Chris Betts, who will play an extended prelude beginning at 4:40. Mr. Betts is a former organist at Washington National Cathedral and St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Houston. He presently serves as Managing Director of Solid State Organ Systems and will serve as our organist here at Christ Church after Easter when

Jason goes on sabbatical. Please plan to join us to hear some truly inspiring music. A reception will follow.

Christmas Pageant | December 21, 2025

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:10:51 GMT

December 21, 2025 | Christmas Pageant

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 21 at 5:00 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to enjoy this beloved retelling of Christ’s birth. The Yuletide Feast will follow in the Auditorium.

Comfort Ye: An Advent Service for a Difficult Time | December 14, 2025

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:09:54 GMT

Sunday, December 14 | 5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. Worship: Comfort Ye: An Advent service for a difficult time

For many, this is a season of mixed emotions, including sorrow and grief. In this service, we will acknowledge our sadness and offer prayers for loss then follow by sharing the Eucharist together as a sign of our eternal hope.

Lessons & Carols December 7, 2025

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 21:17:54 GMT

Lessons & Carols | December 7, 2025

Please join us for our 20th annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 7 at 5:00 p.m. The combined choirs of Christ Church will be joined by readers from throughout the community, a brass quintet, and guest organist, Dr. Daniel Aune. The service will include the premiere of a newly commissioned anthem by Jessica Nelson, Director of Music at the Cathedral of St Andrew in Jackson, Mississippi. The doors to the church will open at 4:30 for seating. Childcare for kids under age 6 will be available in the nursery and a festive reception will follow in the Auditorium. Bring a friend to join you in celebrating the marvelous music and stories from Advent and Christmas.

Requiem by Maurice Duruflé | November 2, 2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:53:28 GMT

Requiem | November 2, 2025

All Saints’ Sunday | November 2

The Christ Church Choir will sing Maurice Duruflé's beautiful Requiem on Sunday, November 2 at 5 p.m. The choir will be joined by guest organist Nicholas Bideler, and a chamber orchestra in presenting this work in the context of the All Souls' Day Liturgy. Many consider this piece to be among the greatest choral works of the 20th century, and we are honored to present it here thanks to the generosity of so many Friends of Music donors. The service will be sung in memory of all the faithful departed who we will remember that day. A reception will follow in the Meade Room hosted by the Christ Church Foundation. Childcare will be available for the service in the nursery.

Blessing of the Animals | October 5, 2025

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:50:25 GMT

Blessing of the Animals | October 5

All shapes and sizes welcome to the churchyard at 3:00 p.m. on October 5, 2025. There will also be a special prayer for beloved pets who have died. Bring retired collars, leashes, or photos for a blessing.

Choral Evensong | October 5, 2025

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:49:09 GMT

Choral Evensong | October 5

The first Choral Evensong of this program year will be on October 5 at 5:00 p.m. We are excited to welcome Simon Thomas Jacobs, who will be our guest organist. Simon won the St. Albans International Organ Competition in 2013, considered one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. He holds degrees from Cambridge University in the U.K. as well as from Oberlin College. He has played recitals at Notre Dame de Paris, Westminster Abbey, and a host of other prominent locations. He will play an extended prelude beginning at 4:40. The choir will then sing works by Charles Stanford, Balfour Gardiner, Ivor Novello, and Edward Bairstow. A festive reception will follow the service. Invite a friend to join you for a wonderful evening of inspiring music!

Request for Proposals for Christ Church Alexandria Inclusive Memorial Project

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:57:32 GMT

Request for Proposals

Artists' projects may be submitted to Christ Church Alexandria, Virginia, for a monument (Inclusive Memorial) to memorialize the contributions of enslaved persons to the Church’s founding and early years.

Details concerning the Inclusive project are set forth in the RFP . Proposals under the RFP are due by midnight, EST, on October 25, 2025.

The RFP may be circulated to all persons who may interested, if permitted by the rules of your organization.

Please do not hesitate to direct any inquiries regarding this request in writing, subject line “Inclusive Memorial,” via email.

Monday Concert Series 2025-26

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:25:27 GMT

Monday Concert Series

Second Monday of the Month | October through May | 12:15 p.m.

There is no admission for these concerts, though we hope audience members will support the series with a goodwill donation of any amount (suggested amount: $10). These 45-minute programs include solo performers and chamber musicians based in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

For concert inquiries, please contact series director Margot Rood .

October 13

Organ Works of Bach, Willis, and Bridge; Paul Byssainthe, Jr.

November 10

Fantasias for Solo Violin; Freya Creech

December 8

Celtic Music for Christmas; Gut, Wind, and Wire

March 9

4-Hand Piano works by Mozart, Schubert, and Barber; Sean Burns and Jason Abel

April 13

Love, Loss, and Joy: Songs for New Beginnings; Nicole Plummer and Guzal Isametdinova

May 11

To Pleasures, To Delights: Songs for Voice and Lute; Aaron Sheehan and William Simms

Welcome Sunday | September 7, 2025

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:48:17 GMT

Welcome Sunday 2025 | September 7

Welcome Sunday is a fun and joyful day for Christ Church and our community! The 10:00 a.m. service will feature the full choir with brass instruments. A churchyard potluck picnic follows at around 11:30 a.m., featuring grilled hot dogs, funnel cakes, and activities for kids of all ages including face painting, music, and lawn games.

All are welcome to this festive event!

Pride Eucharist | June 28, 2025

Tue, 27 May 2025 15:57:50 GMT

Pride Eucharist | June 28, 2025 at Noon

Members of the LGBTQ+ community, friends, family, and allies are invited to celebrate Pride Month on June 28. Join us at noon for a vibrant Pride Eucharist in the churchyard. After the service, mingle and enjoy a light reception. Then head to City Hall/Market Square (301 King Street) for Alexandria Pride 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Stop by the Christ Church table to say hello and spread some cheer. Hosted by the Alexandria Region of the Episcopal Church, this event honors the richness of our diverse identities as reflections of the divine.

All are warmly welcomed!

Gospel Mass | May 4, 2025

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 21:27:09 GMT

Gospel Mass | May 4 | 5:00 p.m.

The Christ Church Choir will be joined by soloists Dwayne Pinkney and Jihanna Davis, and an instrumental ensemble, in offering Robert Ray's celebrated Gospel Mass on Sunday, May 4 at 5:00 p.m. The Rev. Dr. Frank Wade will preach, and a reception will follow the service. All are welcome!

Choral Evensong | April 13, 2025

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:55:47 GMT

Choral Evensong | April 13 | 5:00 p.m.

On Sunday, April 13, we welcome the choir from St. James School in Hagerstown, Maryland, as they sing the service of Choral Evensong at 5:00 p.m. They will sing works by Brewer, Howells, and Radcliffe. St. James School, founded in 1842, is the oldest Episcopal boarding school based on the Oxford model in the U.S. and we are delighted to have their marvelous choir leading us in worship.

Choral Evensong | April 6, 2025

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:46:12 GMT

Choral Evensong | April 6

Choral Evensong | April 6 | 5:00 p.m.

The service will be accompanied by Dr. J.J. Mitchell, Dean of the Northern Virginia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. His prelude will begin at 4:40. The choir will sing works by Philip Moore, William Bradley Roberts, and Owain Park. All are invited to attend.

Holy Week & Easter Worship Schedule 2025

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 19:10:44 GMT

Holy Week and Easter Worship Schedule

April 13 – Palm Sunday

8:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

10:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

April 16

7:30 p.m. – Taize Service | Auditorium

April 17 | Maundy Thursday

6:00 p.m. – Agape Meal | Auditorium

7:30 p.m. – Holy Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar | Watch Livestream

April 18 | Good Friday

7:30 a.m. Morning Prayer

12 noon Good Friday Liturgy with St. Paul's (at St Paul's Alexandria)

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth | McMurray Commons

4:30 p.m. Family Stations of the Cross in Nature

7:30 p.m. Good Friday Liturgy

April 19 | Holy Saturday

10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer

7:30 p.m. Easter Vigil

April 20 | Easter Sunday

7:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Family Service | Auditorium (Easter Egg Hunt to follow in churchyard)

11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist

Easter offerings can still be mailed to the church office at 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria VA 22314, with "Easter" in the memo line. You can also make your offering online by clicking here.

Lent 2025

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 20:00:19 GMT

Lent 2025

Early Christians observed “a season of penitence and fasting” in preparation for the Paschal feast, or Pascha (BCP, pp. 264-265). The season now known as Lent (from an Old English word meaning “spring,” the time of lengthening days) has a long history. Originally, in places where Pascha was celebrated on a Sunday, the Paschal feast followed a fast of up to two days. In the third century this fast was lengthened to six days. Eventually this fast became attached to, or overlapped, another fast of forty days, in imitation of Christ's fasting in the wilderness. The forty-day fast was especially important for converts to the faith who were preparing for baptism, and for those guilty of notorious sins who were being restored to the Christian assembly. In the western church the forty days of Lent extend from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday, omitting Sundays. The last three days of Lent are the sacred Triduum of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Today Lent has reacquired its significance as the final preparation of adult candidates for baptism. Joining with them, all Christians are invited “to the observance of a holy Lent, by self-examination and repentance; by prayer, fasting, and self-denial; and by reading and meditating on God's holy Word” (BCP, p. 265).

Whoever you are and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here.

For a list of our Lenten offerings please visit our Lent, Holy Week & Easter page .

Choral Evensong | March 2, 2024

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:49:03 GMT

Choral Evensong | March 2

The next service of Choral Evensong will be sung on Sunday, March 2 at 5:00 p.m. The Christ Church Choir will be joined by organist Jerrick Cavagnaro. Mr. Cavagnaro is the Associate Organist at Trinity Church, Copley Square, in Boston. In 2024, he won the national competition in Organ Improvisation at the American Guild of Organists National Convention in San Francisco. The Evensong service will feature several of his improvisations - a unique opportunity not to be missed! His prelude will begin at 4:40 and a reception will follow the service in the Meade Room.

Ash Wednesday | March 5, 2025

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 19:53:13 GMT

Ash Wednesday 2025

March 5 | Service of the Word and Imposition of Ashes

Worship at Christ Church

7:30 a.m., 12 noon, 7:30 p.m.
Ash Wednesday Family Service: 5:30 p.m.

Ashes-to-Go

Choral Evensong | February 2, 2024

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:59:28 GMT

Choral Evensong | February 2

The next Choral Evensong will be held on Sunday, February 2 at 5:00 pm. There will be an extended organ prelude at 4:40 played by Joseph Ripka. Mr. Ripka is the Canon Musician at the Episcopal Cathedral in Oklahoma City. The music for the service itself will all be by composer David Ashley White. Dr. White recently celebrated his 80th birthday and our service will celebrate the tremendous musical gifts he has made to canon of sacred music, and especially to The Episcopal Church’s musical repertoire.

A Service of Prayer for Peace | January 26, 2025

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 17:54:20 GMT

A Service of Prayer for Peace | January 26, 2025 | 10:00 a.m.

On January 26, 2025, we will hold a special event to commemorate the January 1942 visit of Prime Minister Winston Churchill and President Franklin Roosevelt to Christ Church. These two leaders observed a National Day of Prayer for peace and victory that President Roosevelt had declared. The forum at 9:00 a.m. will include an introduction to the history and spiritual significance of the event. We plan to remember their historic visit by incorporating appropriate prayers and hymns into our 10:00 Episcopal service of Holy Eucharist. Our guest preacher at the service will be the Very

Rev. Ian Markham, Dean of the Virginia Theological Seminary. The British Embassy will be represented by Admiral Timothy Woods, Defense Attaché. A festive reception will follow the service in the Auditorium and we invite you to be a part of this celebration.

Armonia Nova Concert | January 5, 2025

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 20:27:40 GMT

Twelfth Night | January 5 at 7:00 p.m.

TWELFTH NIGHT: A Season for Renewal & Rejoicing

ARMONIA NOVA invites you to savour the joy and peace of the holiday season with an evening of glorious music celebrating Winter Solstice.

Renewal, rejoicing and reflection - this theme is as timeless as Winter Solstice itself. As is the music – sacred or secular, serene or exuberant, featuring early and traditional favorites – music both serene and joyful, offering peace and hope to all. Armonia Nova’s 22nd annual performance of ‘Twelfth Night’!

Constance Whiteside, director: medieval & baroque harps

Jay White, voice

Craig Resta, vielle & baroque violin

Donations kindly requested. No tickets required.

Armonia Nova is an ensemble of period instruments and voices specializing in music of the 12th -17th centuries.

Christmas Pageant | December 22, 2024

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 21:16:15 GMT

December 22, 2023 | Christmas Pageant

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 22 at 5:00 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to enjoy this beloved retelling of Christ’s birth. The Yuletide Feast will follow in the Auditorium.

Comfort Ye: An Advent Service for a Difficult Time | December 15, 2024

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 18:12:20 GMT

Sunday, December 15 | 5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. Worship: Comfort Ye: An Advent service for a difficult time

Taize Service | December 11, 2024

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 18:10:29 GMT

Taizé for Advent | Auditorium | 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, December 11

Lessons & Carols December 8, 2024

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 15:56:20 GMT

Lessons & Carols | December 8, 2024

Please join us for the Festival Service of Nine Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 8 at 5:00 p.m. Our combined choirs, guest organist, brass ensemble, and readers from throughout Alexandria will join together to tell the story of human salvation through readings from Scripture, hymns, carols, and prayers. A festive reception follows in the Auditorium. The doors to the church will open at 4:30 for seating. All are welcome, so bring a friend to join you!

Lessons & Carols December 3, 2023

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 16:02:08 GMT

Lessons & Carols | December 8, 2024

Advent & Christmas

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Advent & Christmas 2025

Advent is a time to prepare for the gift of God's love, in the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a season to celebrate that gift. Being involved in a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming community like Christ Church is a great way to do both. Whoever you are and wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here. In the midst of discomfort and chaos in this week and in this season, take a moment each day to focus on the deep peace that is given to us by God, undiminished by the world racing round us.

For a full list of our Advent offerings please visit our Advent & Christmas page . The Christmas worship schedule is below.

Christmas Eve | December 24

2:00 p.m . — A Simple Service for Christmas Eve

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with Christmas hymns and homily

We will sing selected verses of our favorite Christmas hymns and share the Bread of Life together. ,This service will begin and end in daylight for those who prefer to walk or drive in the daytime.

4:00 p.m. — Christmas Eve Eucharist for Families and Friends

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with Christmas hymns

Let’s raise our voices in song and prayer for the birth of the infant Messiah! Worship will be in the historic church. This is the perfect service for anyone who loves to be a part of worship at its most joyful!

6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m . — The Feast of the Nativity | Livestream at 6:00 p.m.

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with the Christ Church Choir and sermon

Along with the Holy Eucharist, hymns, and a Christmas sermon, these two services will feature the Christ Church Choir, and Director of Music Jason Abel. Join friends and strangers alike as we welcome the infant Christ into our hearts this most holy night.

Christmas Day | December 25

10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II

Celebrate the Nativity with us in a service of word and song on Christmas morning.

Sunday, December 28

10:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II

We will have one service this day. No Children’s Chapel.

Gift Shop Christmas Market

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:18:16 GMT

Gift Shop Christmas Market | Meade Room | November 24, 2024

The Gift Shop Christmas Market is back! On Sunday, November 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., you can once again revel in the Christmas shopping extravaganza at the long-cherished annual event where so many of us jumpstart our holiday shopping with our popular holiday cards, gifts, and décor.

Evening Prayer for an Election | November 4, 2024

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:34:59 GMT

Evening Prayer | 6:00 p.m. | November 4

Join us for a special service of Evening Prayer on the eve of Tuesday’s election.

Requiem by Matthew Coleridge | November 3, 2024

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:31:20 GMT

Requiem | November 3, 2024

All Saints’ Sunday | November 3

On November 3 at the 5:00 pm service, the Christ Church Choir and chamber orchestra will offer the Requiem by Matthew Coleridge. This beautiful and relatively new composition is quickly gaining popularity among singers and audiences world-wide. This will be among the first performances of this piece in the United States. Please plan to attend and invite friends to come and hear this hauntingly memorable work. At this service, we will remember the faithful departed in our prayers and in our music. A reception hosted by the Foundation will follow in the Meade Room.

Monday Concert Series

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:50:34 GMT

Monday Concert Series

Second Monday of the Month | October through May | 12:15 p.m.

There is no admission for these concerts, though we hope audience members will support the series with a goodwill donation of any amount (suggested amount: $10). These 45-minute programs include solo performers and chamber musicians based in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

For concert inquiries, please contact series director Margot Rood .

October 14

Bach's Cello Suites; Wade Davis, cello

November 11

Organ works featuring music by Florence Price, Mendelssohn, & Bach; Midori Ataka, organ

December 9

Coventry Carols for Advent; DC Singer Collective

March 10

For the Flowers are Great Blessings: Songs for Spring; John Logan Wood, tenor & Carter Sligh, piano

April 14

Pergolesi's Stabat Mater; Margot Rood, soprano, Kristen Dubenion-Smith, mezzo soprano & strings

May 12

Classical Guitar works featuring music by Debussy, Poulenc, & Villa-Lobos; Maya Lončar, classical guitar

Welcome Sunday | September 8, 2024

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 16:29:35 GMT

Welcome Sunday 2024 | September 8

All are welcome to this festive event!

Pride Eucharist | June 1, 2024

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:46:27 GMT

Pride Eucharist | June 1, 2024 at Noon

Members of the LGBTQ+ community, friends, family, and allies are invited to kick-off Pride Month on June 1. Join us at noon for a vibrant Pride Eucharist in the churchyard. After the service, mingle and enjoy a light reception. Then head to City Hall/Market Square (301 King Street) for Alexandria Pride 2024 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Stop by the Christ Church table to say hello and spread some cheer. Hosted by the Alexandria Region of the Episcopal Church, this event honors the richness of our diverse identities as reflections of the divine.

All are warmly welcomed!

Worship Schedule

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:24:38 GMT

Holy Week and Easter Worship Schedule

March 24 – Palm Sunday

8:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

10:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

March 27

7:30 p.m. – Taize Service | Auditorium

March 28 | Maundy Thursday

6:00 p.m. – Agape Meal | Auditorium

7:30 p.m. – Holy Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar | Watch Livestream

March 29 | Good Friday

7:30 a.m. Morning Prayer

12 noon Good Friday Liturgy with St. Paul's (at Christ Church) | Watch Livestream

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth | McMurray Commons

4:30 p.m. Family Stations of the Cross in Nature at Jones Point Park

7:30 p.m. Good Friday Liturgy

March 30 | Holy Saturday

10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer

7:30 p.m. Easter Vigil

March 31 | Easter Sunday

7:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Family Service | Auditorium (Easter Egg Hunt to follow in churchyard)

11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist

Easter offerings can still be mailed to the church office at 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria VA 22314, with "Easter" in the memo line. You can also make your offering online by clicking here.

Ash Wednesday 2024

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 14:44:19 GMT

Ash Wednesday 2024

February 14

Service of the Word and Imposition of Ashes:

7:30 a.m., 12 noon, 7:30 p.m.
Ash Wednesday Family Service: 5:30 p.m.

February Evensong | February 4, 2024

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:44:31 GMT

February Evensong | February 4, 2024

The Christ Church Choir will sing the service of Choral Evensong on Sunday, February 4 at 5:00 p.m. The choral music will all be by noted British composer, Joanna Forbes L’Estrange. One of the works being sung was commissioned by Christ Church and this Evensong will be its premiere. The choir will be joined by guest organist, Dr. Lyn Loewi, from St. John’s Episcopal Church, Lafayette Square. Her organ prelude will begin at 4:40. The service of Choral Evensong includes readings, prayers, and music. A reception will follow in the Meade Room. All are welcome to attend.

Christmas Pageant | December 17, 2023

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 20:50:52 GMT

December 17, 2023 | Christmas Pageant

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 17 at 5:00 p.m. in the church. All are welcome to enjoy this beloved retelling of Christ’s birth. The Yuletide Feast will follow in the Auditorium.

Advent & Christmas

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 17:52:29 GMT

Advent & Christmas 2023

For a full list of our Advent offerings and our Christmas worship schedule , please visit our Advent & Christmas page .

Gift Shop Christmas Market

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:03:53 GMT

Gift Shop Christmas Market | November 26, 2023

The Gift Shop Christmas Market is back! On Sunday, November 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., you can once again revel in the Christmas shopping extravaganza at the long-cherished annual event where so many of us jumpstart our holiday shopping with our popular holiday cards, gifts, and décor.

Make your own Advent wreath!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:02:25 GMT

Bringing Advent Home | November 26

Create your own Advent wreath at 9:00 a.m. in the Auditorium! You will leave with a wreath for your household, four candles, and materials to observe this season of hopeful anticipation at home. Bring branches, greens, or your favorite treat to share! All ages welcome! Note that Sunday School will not occur this morning.

Thanksgiving 2023

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:43:39 GMT

Thanksgiving Donations 2023

Many neighbors in Alexandria continue to experience a profound economic crisis and cannot regularly purchase groceries or pay rent, much less have a Thanksgiving dinner. This year, the rate of childhood poverty rose from 5.2% to 12.4%: an all-time high. Moreover, the inflation rate for groceries remains high at 11.4%.

Christ Church hopes to meet the needs of 200 families this year by providing Giant Grocery store gift cards of $100 for families of one to three, and $150 for families of four or more.

Our goal is to raise $20,000 to make this possible!

How to help:

You can make a donation towards the purchase of gift cards for families in need by visiting our Thanksgiving donation page .
You can talk with volunteers in the churchyard after the 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. services on October 29, November 5, and November 12. They can accept donations and answer your questions.
You can donate food. To help the gift cards stretch even farther, we'll be offering special Thanksgiving items at the food pantry the week prior to Thanksgiving. Please consider donating canned yams, canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, cinnamon, poultry seasoning, jars of gravy, canned cranberry sauce, and chicken broth between now and November 15. You can drop donations in the white bin after church or have them shipped to: Lazarus Food Pantry, 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

In the words of those we served last year:

"Thank you so much for the joyous Thanksgiving gift! I’m sure everyone is already busy and overloaded with a lot to do prior to Thanksgiving, so I want to thank you so much, you have helped out more than you might have imagined!! Everything that comes from the heart goes straight to the heart, so much love in return is sent your way! Thanksgiving is a time to thank God for his blessings, and you all are definitely one of them!"

"How can I ever say thank you to a compassionate, thoughtful, and outgoing servant leader of Jesus Christ, who always goes beyond the call of duty? Know that my family and I are extremely grateful."

"God bless you and your family and let the church know that the kids and I said Happy Thanksgiving and we truly appreciate everything that you all have done for us!"

Please conact our Thanksgiving Ministry Coordinator, Amy Bacon , with any questions.

Outreach Sunday 2023

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:26:33 GMT

Outreach Sunday | October 22, 2023

Why be part of Christ Church's outreach ministries?

All are invited to the Auditorium after the 10:00 a.m. service to meet our Outreach Ministry leaders and volunteers, learn about our activities, hear about Christ Church outreach's impact on individuals and families in Alexandria, and experience fellowship. We will have a kid's activity table, a face painter, and balloon artist. Parents can learn how to get their families involved in Outreach. Chef Alan Adenan will prepare delicious breakfast burritos!

Why be part of Christ Church outreach? For John Hill, volunteering at our Thursday food pantry is an opportunity to live out his faith.

John Hill

For the past two years, I have volunteered at the Lazarus food pantry. Every Thursday morning, I join a group of Christ Church volunteers to provide vital groceries to our neighbors in need.

Lazarus is a perfect example of what makes Christ Church special. It’s a wonderful community of volunteers and guests. We don’t just hand out food – it’s a deeply personal experience where the volunteers get to know the guests as friends. And the volunteers have bonded into a close-knit group where we all look forward to seeing each other every Thursday morning.

What I like most, though, working at Lazarus is “faith in action”. Every Thursday morning, I know I am helping someone in a direct and hands-on way. For me, it’s an opportunity to live my faith.

It’s a wonderful experience! I will continue working at the pantry as long as I can lift heavy boxes and push the food cart over the bumpy brick paths of the churchyard.

Why be part of Christ Church outreach? For Claire Chow, lending her talents to support several of our ministries helped her feel at home when she and her husband moved to Alexandria during the pandemic.

Claire Chow

Volunteering with Christ Church outreach efforts has been especially important to me. My husband and I moved here from California literally as the pandemic was shutting things down. I knew that finding a church home and getting involved with outreach would be one of my top priorities, but the inability to attend anything in person made that task all the more difficult. Luckily, I found this church and learned about the tremendous amount of good it does for the community. As things evolved, I’ve been able to participate in a number of different projects and have been able to meet some absolutely wonderful, committed people. Connections I knew would be so important in helping me to feel at home in a brand-new community.

I really appreciate the work that leadership does to keep informed about the needs of the community. I love the diversity of opportunities available: everything from making and distributing bag lunches to helping screen people for eviction prevention. I am very grateful that Christ Church has given me this opportunity to serve and to connect.

Why be part of Christ Church outreach? For Bob Carpenter, cooking for Carpenter's Shelter brings joy that is deep and strong.

Bob Carpenter

“Do” is one of the shortest words in the dictionary. But it is powerful.

“Do” is action. Action that can warm hearts, summon a smile, prompt a “thank you” and even fill an empty stomach.

For several years now I’ve been cooking on the Christ Church team at Carpenter’s Shelter, a haven for the homeless right here in our parish neighborhood. When I’m in Old Town on a first or third Friday, I literally beg to be included.

It only takes about two hours on a Friday night. Why would I “beg” to spend this time among strangers?

Because the experience warms my heart, summons many smiles, and allows me to say “thank you” to our guests for the opportunity to serve them.

Yes, they do say “thanks” to the team, they do give us wide smiles (especially the kids at dessert time!), and they do get a meal that they might not otherwise have.

But I cannot count the joy that I receive in this small service to others less fortunate, those that struggle for shelter, for clothing, for nourishment and for the blessings of this life that I so easily enjoy. This joy is deep and strong. And causes me to be grateful for all that the Father has provided me.

You’ve heard it: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” [Hebrews 13:2 (NRSV)]

“Invite” is another powerful word. I invite you to join the Christ Church team at Carpenter’s Shelter. You might even entertain an angel!

Prayer Service | October 17, 2023

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:43:05 GMT

Prayer Service | October 17, 2023

The Most Reverend Hosam Naoum, the Archbishop of the Anglican Church in Jerusalem, has called for churches around the world to take a day of prayer and fasting for peace in the Holy Land. To that end, Christ Church will offer a Litany for Peace at noon tomorrow, Tuesday, October 17. Please join us in the historic church or view our livestream here.

We are followers of the Lord of Life and we denounce violence in all forms. As people of faith, we will continue to pray for the victims and the perpetrators, for those who have died and those who have killed, for civilians and for military, for terrorists and terrorized.

October Evensong | October 1, 2023

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:17:49 GMT

October Evensong | October 1, 2023

Choral Evensong | October 1

The first Choral Evensong of this program year will be offered on Sunday, October 1 at 5:00. Our choir will be joined by guest organist, David Heinze. Mr. Heinze is Associate Organist at Grace Church in Providence, Rhode Island. He will offer an extended prelude beginning at 4:40. The choir will then sing works by Graham Ellis, Herbert Howells, Adrian Batten, and William Harris. A reception will follow in the Meade Room. All are invited to come and worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

Blessing of the Animals | October 1

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:15:20 GMT

Blessing of the Animals | October 1, 2023

All shapes and sizes welcome to the churchyard at 3:00 p.m on October 1, 2023. There will also be a special prayer for beloved pets who have died. Bring retired collars, leashes, or photos for a blessing.

Welcome Sunday | September 10, 2023

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 13:00:01 GMT

Welcome Sunday 2023 | September 10, 2023

Welcome Sunday is a fun and festive day for Christ Church and our community! Join us after the 10:00 a.m. service in the churchyard for a potluck picnic featuring grilled hot dogs and activities for kids of all ages including a 250th Anniversary photo booth, balloon artist, music, tours, 250th gifts for purchase, and lawn games.

Everyone is encouraged to bring a dish to share. To ensure a variety, please bring your favorite item by last name: A – E: green salads and fruit salads; F – K: chips, dips, veggie trays; L – R: desserts; S – Z: picnic favorites such as coleslaw, potato or pasta salad, baked beans, etc. Bring food to the Meade Room kitchen before the service. See you there!

Hosting such an fun day requires many helping hands. If you are interested in helping at a churchyard activity, ensuring our potluck runs smoothly, welcoming guests in the churchyard, or planning behind the scenes - let us know! Are you new at Christ Church? Then this is a great one-time-only event to lend a hand and get to know others. Give it a try. We'd love to work with you!

Click here for volunteer slots (you won't miss out on the fun!)

Contact Julie Simonton or 703.778-4941 to learn more.

We Praise Thee, O God: Celebrating 250 Years

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:43:30 GMT

We Praise Thee, O God: Celebrating 250 Years

Join us for a special service on Sunday, May 7 at 5:00 p.m. The Christ Church Choir and a chamber orchestra will offer George Frederic Handel’s Utrecht Te Deum. The service will be a celebration of the church’s 250th anniversary. Former clergy have been invited to attend and a festive reception hosted by the Vestry will follow in the churchyard. Childcare will be available.

Spring2ACTion 2023 | April 26

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 16:34:24 GMT

Support Lazarus Ministries via Spring2ACTion

Christ Church’s Lazarus Ministries respond to God's call to help our neighbors by providing emergency financial assistance, case management, and advocacy to residents of the City of Alexandria. Alexandria's Day of Giving, Spring2ACTion, is Wednesday, April 26, and our goal is to raise $35,000 to help our neighbors with medical bills, emergency expenses, rent, and other essential support. Early giving is going on now, and thanks to a generous gift from Immanuel on the Hill, every donation during early giving will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $6,000! Help us reach our goal by spreading the word about the good work of Christ Church Lazarus Ministries and visit our Spring2ACTion page to donate!

Holy Week & Easter Worship Schedule

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:21:19 GMT

Holy Week and Easter Worship Schedule

April 2 – Palm Sunday

8:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

10:00 a.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

5:00 p.m. – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist

Monday through Thursday

7:30 a.m. – Holy Eucharist | Chapel

April 5

7:30 p.m. – Taize Service | Auditorium

April 6 – Maundy Thursday

6:00 p.m. – Agape Meal | Auditorium

7:30 p.m. – Holy Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar

Good Friday | April 7

7:30 a.m. Morning Prayer

12 noon Good Friday Liturgy with St. Paul's at St. Paul's

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth | McMurray Commons

4:30 p.m. Family Stations of the Cross in Nature at Jones Point Park

7:30 p.m. Good Friday Liturgy

Holy Saturday | April 8

10:00 a.m. Morning Prayer

7:30 p.m. Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday | April 9

7:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. Family Service | Auditorium (Easter Egg Hunt to follow in churchyard)

11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist

Easter offerings can still be mailed to the church office at 118 N. Washington St., Alexandria VA 22314, with "Easter" in the memo line. You can also make your offering online by clicking here.

Ash Wednesday 2023

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 16:52:20 GMT

Ash Wednesday 2023

February 22

Service of the Word and Imposition of Ashes:

7:30 a.m., 12 noon, 7:30 p.m. (Also available via Church Online in the evening)
Ash Wednesday Family Service: 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Worship Schedule

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 15:41:36 GMT

Join us in worship this Christmas

All are welcome for Christmas worship, whether it is your first or 1,000th time here. For 250 years, people have come to Christ Church to be nourished and encouraged on their spiritual journey—people of all walks of life, occupation, and age, from your neighbor across the street to archbishops and civil rights leaders, presidents and first ladies. Today, Christ Church is an active, vibrant parish with ministries that strive to inspire the soul, educate, and form spiritual seekers, deepen the bonds of friendship, and meet the needs of a hurting world. We hope you will explore some of the many ways to get involved and come again to share the joy at Christ Church!

Christmas Eve | December 24

2:00 p.m. — A Simple Service for Christmas Eve

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with Christmas hymns and homily

We will sing selected verses of our favorite Christmas hymns and share the Bread of Life together. This service will have limited seating and will be shorter than our other services in order to provide a worship environment for those who are more COVID cautious. Additionally, this service will begin and end in daylight for those who prefer to walk or drive in the daytime.

4:00 p.m. — Christmas Eve Eucharist for Families and Friends

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with Christmas hymns and a sermon by the Director of Children’s Ministries

Let’s raise our voices in song and prayer for the birth of the infant Messiah! Worship will be in the historic church. Ariel Rudy will share a message of hope and joy for the year to come. This is the perfect service for anyone who loves to be a part of worship at its most joyful!

6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. — The Feast of the Nativity | Livestream at 6:00 p.m.

Holy Eucharist Rite II, with the Christ Church Choir and sermon

Christmas Day | December 25

10:00 a.m.

Christmas Pageant

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 15:33:30 GMT

December 18, 2022 | Christmas Pageant

Don’t miss the annual Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 18 at 5:00 p.m. in the church, and livestreamed through Church Online. All are welcome to enjoy this beloved retelling of Christ’s birth. The Yuletide Feast will follow in the Auditorium.

Comfort Ye: An Advent Service for a Difficult Time

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 19:14:54 GMT

Sunday, December 11 | 5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. Worship: Comfort Ye: An Advent service for a difficult time

Gift Shop Christmas Market

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:41:00 GMT

Gift Shop Christmas Market | November 27, 2022

The Gift Shop Christmas Market is back! On Sunday, November 27, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., you can once again revel in the Christmas shopping extravaganza at the long-cherished annual event where so many of us jumpstart our holiday shopping with our popular holiday cards, gifts, and décor.

Lessons & Carols 2022

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 19:34:27 GMT

Lessons & Carols | December 4, 2022

The combined choirs of Christ Church, brass quintet, and readers from throughout the community will offer a festival service of nine lessons and carols on December 4 at 5:00 pm. Please join us in what has become an Old Town tradition as we celebrate the Advent season with popular carols and hymns. A festive reception will follow in the Auditorium. Childcare is available. Doors will open at 4:30 for seating. All are welcome!

Make your own Advent wreath!

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 20:27:14 GMT

Bringing Advent Home | November 27

Create your own Advent wreath at 9:00 a.m. in the churchyard! You will leave with a wreath for your household, four candles, and materials to observe this season of hopeful anticipation at home. Bring branches to share! In the event of inclement weather, this workshop will take place in the Auditorium. All ages welcome! Note that Sunday School will not occur this morning.

Advent & Christmas

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 21:17:41 GMT

Advent & Christmas 2022

For a full list of our Advent offerings and our Christmas worship schedule , please visit our Advent & Christmas page .

November 6 Evensong

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 18:19:06 GMT

November 6 Evensong | 5:00 p.m.

Please join us on Sunday, November 6 at 5:00 p.m. for Choral Evensong celebrating All Saints’ Sunday. The choir will sing works by Charles Stanford and Edward Bairstow. Our guest organist will be Dr. Jason Farris, organist at Grace Church, The Plains, Virginia. He will play an extended prelude beginning at 4:40. At this service, we will specifically remember the faithful departed. Following the service, a reception will be held in the Meade Room hosted by the Christ Church Foundation.

Blessing of the Animals | October 9

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 14:14:30 GMT

Blessing of the Animals | October 9, 2022

The blessing was originally scheduled for October 2, but thanks to Hurricane Ian, is now scheduled for October 9. All shapes and sizes welcome. There will also be a special prayer for beloved pets who have died. Bring retired collars, leashes, or photos for a blessing.

Welcome Sunday 2022

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 21:45:27 GMT

Welcome Sunday 2022 | September 11, 2022

Welcome Sunday is a fun and festive day for everyone! Join us after the 10:00 a.m. service in the churchyard for a potluck picnic featuring grilled hot dogs and activities for kids of all ages including a balloon artist, temporary tattoo artist, and lawn games. Christ Church docents will offer a history of the church building, and if you’re newer to the church, we’ll also offer a short tour of our whole campus to orient you to our buildings. Everyone is encouraged to bring a dish to share. To ensure a variety, we are dividing up food by last name: A – E: green salads and fruit salads; F – K: chips, dips, veggie trays; L – R: desserts; S – Z: picnic side dishes such as coleslaw, potato or pasta salad, baked beans, etc. Bring food to the Meade Room kitchen before the service. See you there!

Pentecost Picnic 2022

Fri, 27 May 2022 18:37:59 GMT

Pentecost | June 5, 2022

The Pentecost story tells how the Holy Spirit flooded the early followers of Jesus and gave birth to the Church. We're celebrating with fun and fellowship, so please join us for a picnic after the 10:0 a.m. service! Grilled hot dogs will be served and there will be lawn games for all ages. Bring a dessert to share, as you are able. Please contact Elizabeth Trigg if you have any questions or are interested in lending a hand.

Easter Schedule

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 19:59:21 GMT

Our worship schedule for Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022. Services are in the church unless otherwise noted.

7:30 a.m. – Holy Eucharist | Churchyard (weather permitting)

9:00 a.m. – Holy Eucharist

9:00 a.m. – Family Holy Eucharist | Auditorium (with Easter Egg Hunt to follow in churchyard)

11:15 a.m. – Holy Eucharist | Watch Livestream

5:00 p.m. – Holy Eucharist

Spring2ACTion on April 27

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 19:59:21 GMT

Spring2ACTion on April 27

Spring2ACTion is Alexandria’s official Giving Day. It’s an online giving event designed to help nonprofits across the Alexandria community. It provides a way to give that is easy and brings the community together. We will be raising funds for the Refugee Ministry. Click here to donate!

March/April Rejoice

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 19:59:21 GMT

Click below to read our latest issue