New Here

Whoever you are and wherever you're from, you're welcome at Emmanuel,
a multiethnic church in Arlington Virginia.

At this time, we do not have a designated parking lot. However, there are four parking options.
Please DO NOT park in front of a residential home.

East Falls Church and Ballston-MU on the Orange and Silver lines are the two closest metro stations

East Falls Church and Ballston-MU on the Orange and Silver lines are the two closest metro stations

What do you have for children?
We have fully opened Children’s Church.  We currently have nursery for children up to 24 months and Children’s Church for children up to fifth grade on Sundays.

What are the demographics of your church?
We believe a healthy church reflects the community around it and draws from a variety of gifts, talents and experiences. To that end, Emmanuel celebrates our being a multi-ethnic church that roughly mirrors the rich diversity of Arlington and the surrounding area. Further, our congregation includes singles, young couples, families and empty nesters—and kids of all ages. God welcomes people from every background, and so you’re welcome, too.

What is your worship style?
Our services draw from the rich history of hymns, songs, prayers and confessions the Church has created over the centuries--including the present one. Yet "traditional" probably won't be the word you use to describe our services. Or worse, "stuffy" or "slick". We aim for an acoustic feel, a little folk, a little jazz. Weekly communion is an important element of the service, a visible reminder and experience of God’s grace. But the most important consideration is that every element of the service is Christ-centered, so that all of us can experience the presence of God.

What about the preaching style?
Nobody likes to be yelled at or brow-beaten, so you won't get that. You also won't hear a lot of rules and regulations. All of that conveys we relate to God based on our performance. We don't. That's the anti-gospel. Instead, everything depends on God's graciousness on our behalf, in everything. Getting hold of that, though, has enormous implications for our life and relationships. So mostly, that's what you'll hear about: how God and what he has done for us is greater than we've ever dared imagine, and how that changes everything.

What should I wear?
Please feel free to wear whatever you like. We've seen the range from shorts to suits--but if it helps, most people wear what could be called "dressy casual." Since the point isn't what you're wearing, but who you're worshipping, there's no dress code.

Are there sister congregations in the area?
There are many wonderful churches in metro Washington DC area. If our congregation is not the most convenient time or location, please refer to this list of sister Presbyterian Church in America congregations that may be closer to you. Emmanuel Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), a denomination committed to the historic truths of Scripture and the relevance of the gospel in everyday life.

How will I know service is canceled due to inclement weather?
In case of inclement weather, updates will be available on Emmanuel’s website and office phone.