Obamas Attend Episcopal Service Near White House

St. John's Is Popular Pick With Presidents, Dating Back to James Madison

President Obama and his family attended Sunday services at St. John's Church, an Episcopal church on Lafayette Square just across the street from the White House.

Obama, first lady Michelle, and daughters Sasha and Malia listened to a sermon about how Christianity has consequences.

Mike Angell, a seminarian of the church, told the parishioners that the consequences vary, whether it is making a hard decision at work or deciding to give more time to God.

Angell told the worshipers they do not face these consequences alone. "We are given each other as a source of boldness," he said.

The Obamas shook hands with those around them as the parishioners were told to show one another a sign of peace. The worshipers prayed for all people, including "Barack, our president; the leaders of Congress; the Supreme Court; and all who are in authority." The family took a quick ride to the services, but opted to stroll back together to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Obama, who also worshiped at the pale-yellow church on Easter Sunday and on Inauguration Day, has not chosen a permanent congregation for the first family in Washington.

St. John's is a popular pick for presidents -- both because it is near the White House and because it is familiar to the Secret Service.

A pew nine rows back from the altar carries a small brass plaque designating it as "The President's Pew." President George W. Bush often attended services, and church history claims that every president since James Madison, the nation's fourth chief executive, has visited.

The first service in the landmark church was held in 1816 and many former presidents have worshiped there.