Taking in Sacred Spaces: America's Catholic Church

DC is full of great sites to see--that's no surprise.  When in the city, though, get off the well-worn path and enjoy the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Catholic church in North America.  The building contains about 70 chapels, small and large, with many references to international and ethnic diversity. Certainly a lesser-known DC site, it still brings home the current #15 spot (of 432) things to do in DC on Trip Advisor.

So, why would we recommend that you visit the Basilica, even if you are not Catholic?  Sacred sites are cultural sites.  The Basilica is full of impressive art (with few crowds) and the rich history and tradition of Catholicism.  Use a resource like the knowledgeable docents or a guidebook from the bookstore to help you notice details you might miss. For instance, the people pictured in the Vietnamese mural below are all martyrs, and we learned this from our tour guide.

For those of traditional Christian backgrounds, this site can definitely inspire worship whether you are Protestant, Catholic, or Orthodox.  You can come in agreeing with Catholic theology (or not), and still spend time in prayer and thought. If you are Catholic and wish to participate in sacraments, check the schedules for masses and confession.  This is an active church--we've also visited Washington National Cathedral, but while beautiful and interesting, that site feels much less like an active house of worship to us.  The church, often known as America's Catholic Church, is definitely a beacon for its faithful.  The Basilica is currently installing a dome mural honoring the Trinity, inspiring a thoughtful donation from E in front of this small section on display right now.  The mosaic is expected to be on view in December 2017, and we hope to visit.

If you go, simply take the Brookland-Catholic University of America red line Metro stop and walk up the hill--you'll find where you are going easily.  There's a cafeteria serving breakfast and lunch as well as a large gift shop and bookstore.  No matter the time of day, week, or liturgical season, do expect to see people in active worship, at least in some of the chapels.  Free tours are frequently available.  You are also very close to a Franciscan monastery that welcomes visitors--it's walkable from the site. Yes, we've been, but in the pre-blogging days.  Our understanding is that these buildings are some of the anchors of a growing Catholic community in DC, another reason to take in the neighborhood.