“Safer and more secure.” Those were the words used to describe Saint Stephen Martyr Catholic Church. The words gave a sense of comfort to the United States Secret Service. They chose this church for President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to worship.
Saint Stephen Martyr Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith and history. It is located at 2436 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington D.C. The parish was established on August 4, 1867. Its story is one of growth and renewal.
In the summer of 1865, Archbishop Martin John Spalding proposed a new parish. He wanted to serve the growing Catholic population in the city’s west end. Land was purchased and fundraising began. The cornerstone for the first church was laid on June 3, 1866.
Rev. John McNally became the first pastor of Saint Stephen in 1867. A celebration was held at St. Matthew’s Church. St. Stephen’s became the ninth Catholic parish in the city.
Architect Adolf Cluss designed the original red brick church and rectory. Construction and fundraising went hand in hand. The first mass was held in the church basement on October 27, 1867. Saint Stephen Martyr Church was dedicated on December 29, 1867.
The church wasn’t fully complete until the end of 1868. It was consecrated on December 27, 1868. The total cost for the church and rectory was about $51425.
Sunday school began in January 1868. Father McNally wanted a parochial school. St. Stephen’s Parish School for Boys opened in 1872. The Daughters of Charity also opened St. Rose’s Industrial School. St. Stephen’s Parish School closed in 1879.
Father McNally died in 1889. Father John Gloyd succeeded him. He worked to improve the church’s income and paid off its debt. He also collected jewelry from parishioners. It was melted down and turned into chalices.
Father John J. Dougherty expanded the church. A new marble altar was installed. Architectural changes were made. Two new chapels were built. The sanctuary was extended with an apse.
Father Walker S. Caughy became pastor. He was admired for his compassion. He reduced the church’s debt by half.
Father Joseph J. Cassidy installed electric lighting. He had new frescos painted. He also had a goal to add a parochial school. Ground was broken for the school in 1923. Father Cassidy was made a monsignor.
Father George B. Harrington managed to pay off debt by the late 1930’s. Father Edward Jerome Winter led renovations to the rectory, convent and church. Father Joseph F. Denges renovated the school. He was also elevated to the rank of Right Revered Monsignor.
The old church was razed. Groundbreaking for a new Modernist-style structure was held. The new church was consecrated on June 11, 1961. The new building cost $650000. It had a bell tower and a large window made of chipped glass. A porcelain statue of Saint Stephen was installed.
President John F. Kennedy often worshipped at Saint Stephen Martyr. It was considered safer than other churches. After his assassination, the church played a role in his lying in repose. Items from the church were borrowed for the service.
Saint Stephen Martyr has seen many changes. It has evolved to meet the needs of its community. Today, it remains a vibrant center of faith. It welcomes all who seek spiritual nourishment in the heart of Washington D.C.