Southeast Christian Fellowship (SECF) is a vibrant, multigenerational church located in the heart of Southeast Washington, D.C., and proudly stands as the only predominantly African American congregation within the Brethren Church denomination. Our church family is rooted in a powerful legacy of faith, service, and spiritual transformation — a place where all are welcomed, empowered, and equipped to grow in Christ.
OUR PASTOR
Elder Derrick Hammiel
Elder Derrick Hammiel has a tremendous passion for God’s word coupled with a love for God’s people. Born into a family and tradition of pastoral Christian leaders, Derrick gained a true passion and appreciation for ministry at a young age. Driven by a mission to preach to the world and equip individuals for Kingdom living, he feels a true connection with God and the universal church believing that his own life’s mission is to share his gift with others.
Elder Derrick Hammiel married the love of his life, the incomparable Dr. Nichelle Hammiel. God blessed them with three beautiful, intelligent, and God-fearing daughters (Zykirah, Arriyah, and Oliviyah).
He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in Religious Studies from Georgetown University. He stands on the word; his mother wrote on his backpack in elementary school, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! (Phil.4:13)
About Southeast Christian Fellowship
Our Vision Statement
A gospel centered and spirit filled church with the objective of knowing Jesus and making Him known through love, discipleship of all nations, and services to our community and the world.
Our Core Values
- Extend the unconditional love of Jesus Christ throughout our community. (John 3:16)
- Operate under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. (John 16:13)
- Pray and Worship corporately and individually. (Matthew 6:6, 18:19-20)
- Participate in small groups and/or Bible Study. (Acts 5:42; II Timothy 2:15)
- Operate within our spiritual gifts. (I Corinthians 12:4-13)
- Give sacrificially of our time, talents and resources. (Malachi 3:8-12; Matthew 25:14-30; and Luke 21:1-4)
- Honor the service of our leaders. (I Thessalonians 5:12-13; Hebrews 13:17)
- Strive for excellence in all that we do; God desires nothing less. (Ephesians 4:1; Romans 12:2; I Timothy 6:11; and Galatians 5:16-23)
- Build positive Christian relationships through fellowship.(Hebrews 10:25)
Our Denomination & Beliefs
SECF is part of the Brethren Church, a Christ-centered movement that emphasizes living out the Gospel through love, unity, and service. Supported by Regions and Clusters, the Brethren Church is built upon the belief in Jesus Christ as the living Word of God, and our shared mission is:
“To make disciples of Jesus Christ who, united in Christ, embrace and reflect God’s love and live in the transforming presence and power of the Holy Spirit.”
At SECF, we honor and uphold the core ordinances of the Brethren tradition, which include:
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Baptism by triune immersion
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Confirmation by the laying on of hands
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Three-Fold Communion: the love feast, eucharist (bread and cup), and foot washing
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Anointing with oil for healing and blessing
These sacred practices are regularly observed as part of our spiritual rhythm and community life.
Our Story
The Washington Brethren Church opened its doors in December 1948 at the location of 3140 Q Street, SE, in Washington, DC. These faith-filled people had relocated from a temporary church home at The Friendship House located at 7th and D Streets, SE.
The new location at Branch Avenue and Q Street consisted of a basement unit with entrances, one on Branch Avenue and the other through the Fellowship Hall off of Q Street. Services were held in this underground location for 10 years until the Ashland Church assisted the congregation with financing to build the upper levels including the sanctuary and several offices. The sanctuary was dedicated in March 1958.
Ministries & Programs
At Southeast Christian Fellowship, ministry is more than what we do — it’s who we are. We are passionate about spiritual growth, community service, and building authentic relationships in Christ. Our current ministries include:
- Women’s Ministry
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Men’s Ministry
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Children’s Ministry
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One Accord Ministry
- Outreach Ministry
Whether you’re seeking a deeper relationship with God, a place to serve, or a community that feels like family — there’s a place for you here at SECF.
Why SECF?
Southeast Christian Fellowship is more than a church — it’s a spiritual home where faith meets action, and tradition meets transformation. We are committed to equipping believers to live fully in the power of the Holy Spirit and reflect the love of Christ in every area of life.
Come grow with us. Worship with us. Serve with us.
We invite you to experience the heart of SECF — where heritage, hope, and the Holy Spirit come together to do great things for the Kingdom of God.
