The church origins dates back to the second half of the 19th century. At this time, due to the Russian soldiers stationed in the town, the decision to build this church was made. The build was actually finished in 1849, but some finishing touches were being made in the following years. In the same time a square belfry and a parish building were build on the opposite side of Brzeska Street (now Sienkiewicza Street). The temple was being consecrated on the 13th of June 1852 and after a little while, being used as a garrison building, in 1864 it was transformed into a parish church. After regaining the independence, this church was owned by Chełm's Orthodox inhabitants. It was redecorated in 1927. Till today, St John Theologian Orthodox Church is a centre of Orthodox faith in the Chełm district. After the second World War the church was renovated (within years 1949-1990) and also, within years 1991-1992, the iconostasis were renovated. In 1999 the Orthodox church was endowed an illumination by the local authorities.