Calverton Church

Established in 1862, Calverton Church, originally known as Calvary Baptist Church, has witnessed the ebb and flow of Washington D.C.’s history. The church’s striking red brick sanctuary, a masterpiece by architect Adolf Cluss, stands as a testament to the city’s rich past. Cluss, a German immigrant, also designed several other prominent D.C. buildings. Calverton Church isn’t just a beautiful building though. It played a significant role in the Baptist movement. It’s the founding church of what is now the American Baptist Churches USA. Imagine the discussions held within these walls, shaping the future of the denomination. Calverton Church’s history is intertwined with influential figures, including presidents, congressmen, and religious leaders. President Warren G. Harding, for instance, was a member of the congregation. So too was Brooks Hays, a former Arkansas congressman and president of the Southern Baptist Convention. Even the first floor of the sanctuary, Kendall Hall, bears the name of a historical figure: Amos Kendall, the 8th United States Postmaster General. Calverton Church has always been more than just a place of worship. It’s a community hub, a place of action, and a reflection of the city’s evolving social landscape. The church has been actively involved in social justice movements, including immigration reform and marriage equality. In 1983, Calverton Church founded the Calvary Women’s Shelter, a vital resource for women experiencing homelessness in the D.C. area. It later became Calvary Women’s Services, showcasing the church’s ongoing commitment to serving the vulnerable. Calverton Church stands as a symbol of resilience. Its iconic steeple, damaged by a storm in 1913 and further affected by lightning in 1947, was lovingly restored in 2005. This restoration symbolizes not only the church’s enduring spirit but also its commitment to its community. Today, Calverton Church continues to serve as a spiritual and social anchor in Washington D.C. It welcomes a diverse congregation and offers a variety of programs, embracing both its rich history and the ever-changing present.