Welcome About Pastor Service Times Ministries Events Visit Us
Portland, Oregon

Shalom.

Ethiopian Community Church

A community rooted in faith, heritage, and hospitality — carrying the songs, language, and traditions of home, and opening our doors wide to every neighbor in Portland seeking peace.

"All your children will be taught by the LORD, and great will be their peace."

Isaiah 54:13
Welcome

You are home here.

Shalom Ethiopian Community Church was founded to give Portland's Ethiopian families a place to worship, grow, and belong. Whether you grew up in Addis Ababa or in Oregon, or are simply curious about the faith, there is a seat for you. We worship in Amharic and English, and we welcome every generation — from elders who remember home to children growing up in Portland.

Our church is more than a Sunday service. It is a family — a place to find community, encouragement, and the peace of Christ in the middle of everyday life.

"I believe God has an incredible plan for each of us, and together, we are called to serve, grow, and impact our communities for Christ."

— Pastor Melkamu Tadesse, Senior Pastor

Read the full welcome letter ↓
Pastor Melkamu Tadesse
Pastor Melkamu Tadesse
Senior Pastor
A Word From Our Pastor

Welcome to Shalom Ethiopian Community Church

Welcome to our Shalom Ethiopian Community Church family in Portland! It is a joy to have you with us, whether you are visiting for the first time or have been part of our church family for years. As Senior Pastor, my heart is to lead and serve alongside all of you, to guide our church in growing deeper in faith, stronger in relationships, and more passionate about sharing the love of Jesus Christ with our world.

In our church, we are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where people of all ages can encounter God's love, experience His grace, and be transformed by His truth. Our mission is to make disciples who will impact the world with the hope of the gospel.

I believe God has an incredible plan for each of us, and together, we are called to serve, grow, and impact our communities for Christ. We are excited for what God is doing in our midst, and we invite you to be a part of it. Thank you for visiting our site, and I hope to connect with you in person soon.

May God bless you abundantly as you walk in His love and grace.

In Christ's service,
Pastor Melkamu Tadesse

Our Calling

Evangelism & Holistic Ministry

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to spreading the good news of Jesus Christ while addressing the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. Evangelism is not just about sharing the gospel message, but living it out through acts of love, service, and compassion in our community.

Evangelism

We believe the message of Jesus is one of hope, redemption, and new life for everyone. Our ministry empowers people to invite others into a relationship with Christ — through personal relationships, outreach programs, and global missions — taking the gospel to all people, regardless of background, culture, or circumstance.

Holistic Ministry

Holistic ministry reflects the example of Jesus, who preached the gospel and also healed the sick, fed the hungry, and cared for the marginalized. Through service projects, counseling, healthcare initiatives, and community outreach, we address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of those we serve.

"Together, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing hope and healing wherever it is needed most."

When We Gather

Service Times

Sundays · 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Main Service

Worship in Amharic, with translation support. Followed by fellowship and coffee.

Sundays · 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Young Adults

A gathering for young adults to connect, study Scripture, and grow in faith together.

Wednesdays · 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Mid-Week Service

A midweek gathering to dig into Scripture together and lift each other up in prayer.

All are welcome, regardless of background or belief. Come as you are.

Get Involved

Ministries & Fellowship

Children's Ministry

We believe every child is a beloved creation of God, designed with purpose and potential. Through intentional teaching, worship, and relationships, we nurture a safe, engaging space where kids grow in knowledge, character, and faith.

Women's Fellowship

A vibrant community of women growing in faith and building meaningful relationships through Bible studies, prayer groups, social events, and service opportunities — supporting one another in every season of life.

Brother's Fellowship

A community of men growing in faith, accountability, and brotherhood through Bible study, prayer, and service. The fellowship meets every other month and welcomes all men seeking to grow in their walk with Christ.

Choir & Worship Team

Singers and musicians who lead the congregation in heartfelt worship across styles, creating a spirit-filled environment to encounter God through music. Interested in joining as a singer, musician, or volunteer? We'd love to have you.

Interested in joining a group? Reach out and we'll connect you.

What's Coming Up

Upcoming Events

Jun27

Outreach

Meet at 10:00 AM at the church. We go out together to share the gospel with the community.

Jul05

Church Picnic

Our Sunday service moves to the park, starting at 10:00 AM as usual, followed by games and fun for all ages. Held at Blue Lake Regional Park, 21224 NE Blue Lake Rd, Fairview, OR 97024.

More events coming soon — send your calendar and we'll keep this section current.

Plan Your Visit

We'd love to meet you.

Address 5501 SE Thiessen Rd
Milwaukie, OR 97267
  • Free parking on-site
  • Casual or traditional dress — come as you are
  • Two Sunday gatherings: Main Service at 10am, Young Adults at 1:30pm
  • Worship in Amharic (English translation provided)