“A majestic Gothic structure,” someone whispers. This is Saint Pauls Lutheran Church. It stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. Founded in 1843, Saint Pauls Lutheran Church holds the distinction of being the first English-speaking Lutheran church in Washington, D.C.
Its story began with 40 members. General John P. Van Ness, an Episcopal churchman, donated the land for the original church. It was located at 11th and H Streets, NW. The cornerstone was laid in 1844. The church was dedicated in 1848. President James K. Polk and top government officials attended the ceremonies.
King Frederick Wilhelm IV and Queen Elisabeth of Prussia gave a silver communion chalice to Saint Pauls Lutheran Church in 1845. This was a token of “interest and good-will.” The historic treasure has been used at every communion service since.
The early years were challenging for Saint Pauls Lutheran Church. Heavy indebtedness burdened the congregation. Rev. John E. Graff, one of the first pastors, rode on horseback through Maryland and Pennsylvania. He visited rural parishioners. He successfully solicited support for the church.
In 1926, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Epiphany merged with Saint Pauls Lutheran Church. They agreed to keep the Saint Pauls name and charter. They planned a new church building. It would be built on a plot owned by Epiphany. The location was 4900 Connecticut Avenue NW.
The cornerstone of the present church was laid in 1930. The ground floor was dedicated in 1931. The 1929 depression delayed the completion. The majestic Gothic structure was finally completed in 1958.
Saint Pauls Lutheran Church is known as “the Mother Church of English Lutheranism” in Washington. It has three “daughter congregations.” These are Reformation, Luther Place Memorial, and St. Marks. It also has four “granddaughter congregations.” These are Zion, Our Redeemer, Keller Memorial, and Epiphany.
Throughout its history, Saint Pauls Lutheran Church has been served by twelve pastors. These include Rev. Albert A. Muller, Rev. John A. Graeff, and Rev. Dr. Andrea L. Walker.
Worship at Saint Pauls is vibrant. The church is a Reconciling in Christ congregation. Regular weekly worship takes place every Sunday morning. It starts at 10:30 am. Saint Pauls celebrates Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. Confirmation is a two-year program for young members. Weddings are held for members and non-members. The church provides comfort and support upon the death of a loved one.
Music is an integral part of worship at Saint Pauls Lutheran Church. The adult choir sings at the Sunday service. Throughout the year, Saint Pauls welcomes a variety of choral groups. These groups include the Washington Bach Consort.
More recently, Saint Pauls Lutheran Church undertook a project. It replaced an old chiller with a high-efficiency chiller. It installed a VRV system to replace leaking steam radiators.
Today, Saint Pauls Lutheran Church stands as a beacon of faith. It is a place of worship. It is a community. It is a historic landmark. The Peter Muhlenberg Memorial is situated in front of the church. It serves as a reminder of the past. It is a symbol of enduring faith.