A History of St. Philip Orthodox Church

Witnessing in South Florida Since the 1980s
St. Philip Orthodox Church has been witnessing to the truth of Orthodox Christianity in the Fort Lauderdale and Davie area since the 1980s. What began as a small gathering of faithful seeking to establish an Antiochian Orthodox presence in Broward County has grown into a vibrant, spiritual home rooted in the 2,000-year-old historic and apostolic Christian faith.

Finding a Permanent Home in Davie
In its early years, the mission community gathered in temporary locations across Broward County to celebrate the divine services. Through the dedication, generosity, and prayers of its founding families, the parish acquired its present property on Griffin Road in Davie, Florida.
Over the decades, the parish built and beautified its temple, transforming it into a sacred space dedicated to traditional Orthodox worship. Complete with traditional iconography, incense, and a cappella sacred music, St. Philip stands as a quiet sanctuary of prayer amidst the bustle of South Florida.

A Global Mosaic of Faith
While St. Philip is a parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, its growth over the past four decades reflects the rich diversity of South Florida itself.
Today, St. Philip is home to a multi-cultural family representing backgrounds from around the globe—including American, Bulgarian, Cuban, Egyptian, Eritrean, Ethiopian, Greek, Lebanese, Palestinian, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Syrian, and Ukrainian traditions—as well as many who have converted to Orthodox Christianity. Together, the parish lives out the words of St. Paul:
“One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all.” — Ephesians 4:5-6

Looking to the Future
Today, under the leadership of Fr. Alex and the parish council, St. Philip continues its mission of spiritual growth, education, and community outreach. With all services conducted in English, comprehensive catechumen education, adult reading groups, and active youth programs, St. Philip remains committed to sharing the unchanging ancient Faith with all who enter its doors.