We are a parish of nearly 1,700 parishioners who worship in the midst of history but are not its captive. We are open to new ideas and prepared to move beyond the familiar in order to embrace new missions, grow in faith and service, and become more faithful Christians.

As you look through our Web site, you will see the wide range of programs we offer for children, youth, adults, and families, be it education or service. For example, parish dinner groups have been an attraction within our congregation and continue to draw us together for informal potluck dinners in each other's homes. First Fridays that gathers once a month in Norton Hall provides time for food and fellowship for families with young children. These mainstays of our parish-wide fellowship allow us to become better acquainted and to engage newcomers in a social setting.

Our church's founding in 1808 has allowed St. Paul's to grow along with our nation. Designed by Benjamin Latrobe, the architect of the United States Capitol, the church sits among two-hundred-year-old row houses in the historic Old Town section of Alexandria. We invite worshippers into the embrace of many generations who have preceded us as we serve God and others in this modern day. We are proud of our history, beginning when the Rev. William Gibson resigned from neighboring Christ Church and formed St. Paul's with a small group of loyal followers. From those humble beginnings and through the loyalty of many generations hence, our church has grown to be a thriving parish in the heart of Alexandria.  We see ourselves as stewards entrusted with preserving and continuing this legacy.

St. Paul heard the word of God and was transformed, becoming Christ's apostle and preaching the Word. Our church has taken his name as our own. We see ourselves as being called to seek ways to build a stronger sense of community, to create a large lay network of pastoral caring, and to continue to ensure that “all guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ.”