“Did you know that Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church is often called the Senate Church?” It stands proudly less than half a mile from the United States Capitol Building. Imagine President Andrew Johnson among a crowd of 20,000 people. They gathered on October 25, 1868, to lay the cornerstone for Saint Joseph’s.
Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church has a rich history. German immigrants founded this parish in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. The church’s architect hailed from Cologne, Germany. He modeled Saint Joseph’s design after the Cologne Cathedral. This is why Saint Joseph’s is so impressive.
Originally, masses at Saint Joseph’s were said in Latin. Homilies were delivered in German. But as Italian stonemasons, working on the Capitol’s expansion, joined the congregation, things began to change.
Built with brown stone from Hershey, Pennsylvania, Saint Joseph’s cost $75,000. The dedication took place on January 18, 1891. In 2002, the church underwent a major renovation. This ensured its beauty for future generations.
Its location near the Supreme Court and congressional offices is key. Many members of Congress and Supreme Court justices attend daily Mass here. Saint Joseph’s became known as the Senate church because of this. St. Peter’s, on the House side, became known as the House church. Senators John E. Kenna, Robert F. Kennedy, and Ted Kennedy were known to attend. Justice Antonin Scalia also frequented daily Mass at Saint Joseph’s.
In 2017, Saint Joseph’s started holding an annual “Gold Mass.” This special Mass is for congressional staffers. Saint Joseph’s proximity to the nation’s lawmakers has made it a place of refuge.
Today, Saint Joseph’s continues to serve its community. You can attend mass here on Sundays at 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 12:00 PM. Weekday masses are held at 8:00 AM and 12:10 PM. Saint Joseph’s offers confessions and Eucharistic Adoration as well.
Saint Joseph’s stands as a testament to faith and community. Its history is intertwined with the political heart of Washington, D.C. A visit to Saint Joseph’s is more than a tour of a church. It is a step into a living history. It connects faith and the United States government. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of faith and history. Saint Joseph’s on Capitol Hill is a unique place. It represents both spiritual solace and civic engagement.