Washington, D.C., is home to many important establishments as the nation’s capital. However, aside from political buildings, churches in the city are among the most significant in the country. They also offer the chance for a spiritual break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Holidify names the Top 10 Churches in Washington, D.C. that offer the perfect spiritual getaway:
Washington National Cathedral
According to its official website, the church is known as a house of prayer for all people. It is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world that is grounded in the reconciling love of Jesus Christ. It is home to the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, with over 1,200 members.
With a trusted voice of moral leadership, it has been hosting various national memorial services and celebrations throughout the years. It has been a sacred place for moments of national significance.
The cathedral is currently under the leadership of the Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith. It is also supported by generous donors worldwide, though it has no direct support from the federal government or any national church body.
Address: Wisconsin & Massachusetts Avenues, NW, Washington, D.C. 20016
Contact: (202) 537-6200
Calvary Baptist Church
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the Calvary Baptist Church is a multi-racial congregation with three interconnected buildings that are perfect for worship services.
The said church is an ecumenical, multi-ethnic, Christian body that reaches out to the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Its services come in either English or Spanish languages. Its long history traces back to many exciting missions, outreach, and partnership programs in the community, as mentioned on its website.
Calvary Baptist Church also holds Sunday school programs and other community activities that happen every now and then.
Address: 755 8th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20002
Second Baptist Church of Washington
Popularly known as the second-oldest African Baptist Church in the city, Second Baptist Church has been a famous site to many. It has a rich history since 1848 as it offers services in many locations.
According to its official website, the church is committed to church growth, community development, membership education, and service to God. Its vision has always been rooted in worship, fellowship, membership care, Christian education, and missions.
Reverend Dr. James E. Terrell is leading the church. He is the 14th pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Washington, D.C. He was installed in 1997.
Address: 816 Third Street, NW, Washington, D.C.
Contact: (202) 842-0233
National Presbyterian Church
The National Presbyterian Church lives by its mission, “Leading people to become faithful followers of Jesus Christ together in God’s world.” It continues to foster growth among its members across all age groups.
Located adjacent to the American University in northwest Washington, D.C., the church currently has approximately 1,500 members. It offers regular worship services on Sundays and other relevant opportunities to serve the community.
With Rev. Allan Poole as the Transitional Senior Pastor and Rev. Donna Marsh as the Executive Pastor, National Presbyterian Church continues to thrive in such a generation.
Address: 4101 Nebraska Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20016
Contact: (202) 537-0800
National City Church
After countless relocations in the city since 1843, National City Church found its home in 1929, offering different opportunities for worship, growth, and fellowship at regular intervals.
By the name itself, the church is the national church for the disciples of Christ. It is an open and affirming church that celebrates all God’s children. Every Sunday, it offers Christian education for all ages and hybrid worship, available both in-person and online. It also holds a special fellowship in the sanctuary and mezzanine after the service.
National City Church is open to people from all walks of life regardless of race, gender, family background, or physical or mental condition.
Address: 5 Thomas Circle NW, Washington, D.C. 20005
Contact: (202) 232-0323
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Considered one of the largest churches in the world, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Roman Catholic Church in the country. It is named a National Sanctuary of Prayer and Pilgrimage by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Aside from its vast worship hall, the basilica is also home to the world's grandest collection of contemporary art. It is open throughout the year, with other amenities such as guided tours, a Catholic Gift Shop, a Catholic Book Store, and a cafeteria for incoming guests.
Address: 400 Michigan Avenue NE, Washington, D.C. 20017
Contact: (202) 526-8300
Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle
Known as one of the most beautiful churches in the country, the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle was originally situated at 15th and H Streets, NW, in 8140 as a parish church. It has been one of the most famous landmarks in the nation’s capital since 1895.
Now located in downtown Washington, D.C., the cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Washington. It is the mother church of the archdiocese, which plays a major role in the Catholic life of the capital of the United States, as mentioned on its website.
Address: 1725 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20036
Contact: (202) 347-3215
Foundry United Methodist Church
Built in 1836, Foundry United Methodist Church has been home to many American presidents, members of Congress, and other renowned personalities in public service.
Though it caters to people in high positions, the church has been a caring community and a spiritual leader in the nation’s capital for many years. It is committed to mission service, social justice, and reconciliation, as mentioned on the website.
Address: 1226 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.
Contact: (202) 667-1377
The United Church
Formerly known as the German United Evangelical Concordia Church, The United Church was founded by a group of German immigrants in 1834. It is a combination of the congregations from Concordia United Church of Christ and Union United Methodist Church with an open approach to faith and accessibility to all.
Currently located in Northwest Washington, D.C., the said church represents a union of three traditions. This includes the United Church of Christ, the United Methodist Church, and German heritage. Reverend William Federici has been serving as the church's senior pastor since July 2012.
Address: 1920 G St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20006
Contact: (202) 331-1495