Our story

Debre Selam Medhanealem Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (DSMA) was founded in 1994 by a few first-generation immigrants & refugees of Ethiopian origin residing in the Twin Cities Metro, Minnesota. Incorporated under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code, DSMA has been a cornerstone of our community for the past 31 years. DSMA is a home for worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth—a place where we can gather, serve, and glorify God together. Currently there are Over 640 first- and second-generation immigrant and refugee family members and 250 children under the age of 18 years old.

Our Mission

“ Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19

Our mission is to proclaim the Gospel as accepted by the Apostles of our lord Jesus Christ in accordance with the Holy Tradition of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo faith.

Our vision

To serve God and neighbor with humility and love, to cultivate spiritual growth through worship, education and community, and to be a living witness of Christ’s truth, mercy and light in the world.

Our Services

  1. Spiritual Guidance: Our dedicated clergy offer religious services for families to connect with God, nurturing the faith and spiritual well-being of our congregation.

  2. Youth Education: We offer children and youth classes for all age groups, instilling the values and teachings of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Christian faith.

  3. Community Voluntarism: Our church members are engaged in outreach efforts, promoting volunteerism and community service, which strengthens our bonds with local residents.

  4. Health Education: Our health awareness programs educate members on important health topics, promoting overall well-being by providing routine blood pressure tests and diabetes screenings through our member run parish nurse group. Over the years, we have expanded our health outreach and services to meet the evolving needs of our community, including flu vaccinations and added florid varnish, collaborating with local clinics, health professionals and professionals in the social services sectors to promote and address various social and health-related issues.