St. Michael Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church Consecrated in San Francisco’s Dogpatch Neighborhood

The former St. Stephen Baptist Church, located at the corner of 22nd and Tennessee streets, was consecrated as the new home of the St. Michael Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church on January 9 and 10. The congregation, which numbers nearly 100 members, traces its spiritual lineage over 2,000 years, from Christ’s 12 apostles to His Grace Bishop Elias, the current Primate of the Eritrean Orthodox Churches in the United States and Canada.

The church’s journey began in the 1980s, when many Eritreans migrated to the Bay Area from their homeland on the Horn of Africa, along the Red Sea between Ethiopia and Sudan. In 2011, Yemane Dessu Hagos, along with colleague Zerai Woldezghi, initiated Tigrinya language classes for San Francisco families. The goal was to help younger generations become fluent in English, the language of opportunity in the United States, while preserving their cultural and linguistic heritage.

The classes were initially hosted by the Greek Orthodox Church on Valencia Street. Over time, they expanded to include faith-based sermons and prayer services, particularly addressing the spiritual needs of the elderly. As the congregation grew, it moved to Ebenezer Baptist Church on Divisadero Street, renting space there for about eight years.

Members began seeking a permanent location. However, the cost of purchasing a building, which could exceed $4 million, proved financially unfeasible. St. Stephen Baptist Church chose to sell its former home after learning that the Eritrean Orthodox congregation was committed to continuing the space as a house of worship devoted to Christ. “We are honored to join the Dogpatch and look forward to being good neighbors, contributing positively to the community, and growing together in faith,” said Amhariety T., the Youth Bible Study Coordinator.

Under the leadership of Deacon Yuiel Abraham, the Spiritual Growth Administrator, the church plans to offer worship, prayer, and spiritual formation opportunities. These include morning prayer services, the divine liturgy—known as the Eucharistic service in Western churches—scheduled times for confession, and personal spiritual consultation. The church will also provide Bible study and faith-formation programs for children, youth, and adults.

Although certain sacramental aspects, such as Holy Communion, are reserved for full members of the Orthodox faith, the congregation views the church as a spiritual hospital rather than a private club. Everyone, regardless of background, belief, or personal circumstances, is welcome to enter, pray, and observe, provided they respect the sacred space. This approach reflects a commitment to inclusivity and spiritual care, aligning with the biblical call to love one’s neighbor and seek justice. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.

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