The 17:23 Story
Last year we recognized a need for a different type of church here in Montgomery County: A tight-knit community where brothers and sisters in Christ live out their calling to love and disciple each other and love God, for the glory of Jesus and the spread of his Kingdom.
A church with simple and intimate worship, Scripturally sound exegetical sermons, meaningful fellowship, no donations, led by a plurality of elders.
We find John 17:23 to be an expression of this vision: “ I in them and you in me—that they may be completely one, so that the world will know that you sent me, and you have loved them just as you have loved me” (NET).
Our Hosts
John Griffin
Hi! I’m John. I’ve served in leadership positions in multiple small churches in Montgomery County. I grew up in Boston and still enjoy keeping up with those sports teams. I have moved up and down the East Coast for work, but for the past 10 years I have been a Finance specialist at a large US government agency. Also, I am finishing up a Master’s of Divinity degree at Duke Divinity School.
Faith Griffin
Hi! I’m Faith. I grew up in Tanzania and immigrated to the US at 19 to attend college. I love prayer and worship and entertaining family and friends. I’ve served on ministry teams at multiple small churches in Montgomery County. Professionally, I am a Director at a Biotech firm, finding treatments for cancer. John and I have 4 teenagers: Clare, Sam, Isabel, and Jonathan.
Scripture is the foundation of our faith and the highest authority in our lives. The Word of God is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.¹ We hold fast that “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work”.² It is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword and able to discern the thoughts and intents of our hearts.³ We are not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God to salvation.⁴ Ultimately, the Word will accomplish what God desires.⁵
¹ Psalms 119:105; ² 1 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV); ³ Hebrews 4:12; ⁴ Romans 1:16; ⁵ Isaiah 55:11
The Holy Spirit dwells within us¹ and bears witness with our Spirit that we are children of God.² He has been poured out on all believers,³ gives us spiritual gifts for the building up of the church,⁴ and has given us a new heart, encouraging us to follow Jesus.⁵ He leads us into all truth,⁶ gives us power to boldly proclaim Christ,⁷ and by the Spirit Jesus will raise us up on the Last Day.⁸
¹ John 14:17, 1 John 4:13; ² Romans 8:14-16; ³ Acts 2:17, Joel 2:28; ⁴ 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; ⁵ Ezekiel 36:26-27; ⁶ John 14:16-17, 1 Corinthians 2:9-12; ⁷ Acts 1:8, 4:31, Luke 1:67; ⁸ Romans 8:11, 17.
A Bible Based and Spirit Filled Church
Plan Your Visit
Discover the latest additions to our collection—handpicked pieces that bring new energy to your space.
Sunday Schedule:
9:45 AM • Doors Open: Grab fresh coffee and donuts, meet a few friendly faces, and find a comfortable seat.
10:00 AM • Worship: Acoustic music and shared praise as a family.
10:30 AM • The Word: A grounded, practical sermon from Scripture.
11:00 AM • Prayer & Discipleship: Time to pray for each other and reflect together on the message.
11:30 AM • Table Fellowship: We conclude around the table with Communion and a shared meal.
Visitor Details:
Location - Damascus/Gaithersburg
Dress Code - Come as you like. There is no dress code, except we are a ‘shoes-off’ home, so bring your most comfortable socks!
Kids and Teens - Teens join main worship and kids welcome.
Allergies and Pets - We are a pet-free home (no dogs or cats) for those with sensitivity or allergies.
Food & Hospitality - No need to bring anything. We provide donuts and lunch afterward.