Saint Paul’s College

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Washington D.C., lies Saint Paul’s College. It stands as a testament to the Paulist Fathers’ enduring legacy. This institution, nestled within the Edgewood neighborhood, has been a cornerstone of Catholic education since 1914. Saint Paul’s College isn’t just a building. It’s a living embodiment of the Paulist mission. A mission focused on education, evangelization, ecumenism, and mass communication. The college served as the intellectual and spiritual home for generations of Paulist seminarians. These men dedicated their lives to serving the local and national Catholic Church. Seminarians at Saint Paul’s College attended the Catholic University of America for their graduate studies in theology. Before 2012, they also had the option of attending the Washington Theological Union. Sadly, financial constraints led to its closure that year. The college itself has seen periods of growth and transformation. Between 1942 and 1955, additions expanded the original structure. A new library wing, dedicated to Msgr. John J. Burke, CSP, opened its doors in 1958. Further renovations in 1987 and 2007 breathed new life into the campus. Parts of Saint Paul’s College became the North American Paulist Center and the Hecker Center for Ministry. In 2016, the college buildings were sold to Boundary Companies, a real estate developer. While this signaled a change, the Paulists continued their mission. They temporarily relocated to St. Joseph’s Seminary before settling into their new home, the Hecker House. The Hecker House remains near the original Saint Paul’s College property, ensuring the continuation of the Paulist presence in the community. In 2018, the original campus received well-deserved recognition. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This honor solidified Saint Paul’s College’s place in the historical narrative of Washington D.C. The story of Saint Paul’s College is a story of dedication, transformation, and enduring faith.