Rooted in Faith. Growing in Christ.
Debre Haile Saint Rufael Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church
Tracy, California
Welcome to Saint Rufael Church
We are a growing Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church serving Stockton, Tracy, Manteca, Modesto, Lathrop, Mountain House, Livermore, and the Central Valley. Our mission is to preserve the Orthodox faith, raise the next generation in Christ, and build a strong spiritual community rooted in tradition, faith, and truth.
What to expect on your first visit
Coming to an Orthodox service for the first time can feel unfamiliar. Here is exactly what happens, so you can walk in at ease.
Arrive anytime
The Divine Liturgy runs 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and most families arrive between 8:00 and 9:00. Parking is free and on site. Come as you are, and modest dress is customary, and a head covering is traditional for women but never expected of guests.
During the service
Worship is chanted in Ge'ez and Amharic, with teaching in Amharic and English. Men and women traditionally stand on separate sides. You are welcome simply to observe, and no one will ask anything of you.
Afterward
Stay for coffee and fellowship in the hall. If you would like to meet a priest, ask any greeter and we will introduce you. Children are welcome throughout, and Sunday School meets during the Liturgy.
Watch & Learn
Dive deeper into the Orthodox faith through sermons, teachings, and mezmur hymns.
Support the Church Mission
Your support helps us build a spiritual home for our children, support elders, and grow the Orthodox faith in the Central Valley.
Roots of Faith Program
A program for children ages 2–10 that teaches the love of Christ, our Orthodox faith, culture, and identity.
Learn More
Join Us
AUG
16
Sunday Divine Liturgy
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Worship and Holy Communion. Sunday School for children.
View DetailsAUG
23
Sunday Divine Liturgy
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Worship and Holy Communion. Sunday School for children.
View DetailsAUG
30
Sunday Divine Liturgy
6:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Worship and Holy Communion. Sunday School for children.
View DetailsSEP
4
Church Inauguration and Feast of St. Rufael
9:30 AM onwards
Day one of three. Consecration of the new church and the annual feast of our patron.
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