ABOUT US
St. Stephens is a local community rooted in Montgomery County, Indiana, connected to the worldwide and historic community of Orthodox Christians. We are called to become, to make, and to grow disciples of Jesus Christ by announcing His love for everyone around us. We experience this through prayer, worship, fellowship, and service to others.
Our desire is that the Lord would continue to bless His Church in this place, that He would bring seekers of the true Faith to “come and see”, and that He would unite us all in oneness of mind. We desire to be firmly rooted in the repentance and healing offered to us by God through His Church, and to share this opportunity with others.
St. Stephens is located in Crawfordsville, Indiana at the corner of Whitlock Avenue and 8th Street. We are a growing community of Orthodox Christians; many of us have come to the faith from a variety of backgrounds.
We are currently in the prayer and planning phase of expanding our worship and fellowship space; most Sundays we experience the mixed blessing of bursting at the seams!
Visitors are always welcome to find a space to stand in the Nave, or you may find a little more elbow room in the back if you prefer. We often need to double park in the lot or even park alongside the road.
Our History
St. Stephen the First Martyr Orthodox Christian Church was established as a parish of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) Diocese of the Midwest in 2001 by His Eminence, Archbishop JOB (of blessed memory). Founded by a community, led by its first rector, Archpriest David Maroney, that had journeyed from a small Bible study to house gatherings, to the Evangelical Orthodox Church (EOC), and finally, the canonical Orthodox Church, St. Stephen’s has always been a place where those who are seeking Christ find a welcoming home.
In 2010, Archpriest Joel Weir began serving as rector. In 2011, St. Stephen's was officially consecrated by His Grace, Bishop MATTHIAS (of blessed memory). The parish has experienced continual growth over its nearly 25 years, continually welcoming new seekers and catechumens, while also providing opportunities for a full sacramental life in the Church for the faithful. St. Stephen's also has a vibrant life outside of services, with seasons of Sunday School for the kids, a soccer league for all ages, fellowship and refreshments after every Sunday Liturgy, adult education and book discussions, mission and community service opportunities, and occasional special events.
Our parish welcomes all, loves to show hospitality, and invites you to come and see!
