Here stands Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church a beacon of faith. This church has served the Black Catholics of Washington D.C. for over a century. Its history is deeply rooted in the community’s struggle for inclusion.
Back in 1911, Black Catholics faced discrimination at St. Teresa Church. They were relegated to the last pews. They were excluded from active participation. Religious education for their children was not provided. These injustices spurred a desire for their own parish. They wanted a place where they could fully express their faith.
Driven by faith, they gathered in homes to pray. They sang hymns and encouraged one another. Father Bart, the pastor of St. Teresa, recognized their plight. He wrote to the Archbishop requesting a new parish for the “Colored” Catholics. Mr. Louis Cooke and Mr. Charles Edelin traveled to Baltimore with the letter. At that time, Washington D.C. was under the Archdiocese of Baltimore. These actions marked the slow beginnings of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
The members of the Mission of St. Teresa began building Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. They poured their sweat equity into the project. Construction began in August 1920. Parishioners dug the foundation. They mixed and poured cement. They worked in the evenings after their day jobs.
The land for Our Lady of Perpetual Help was purchased from Dr. J.C. Norwood. He was a Black physician. A procession started at Douglass Hall. The 525 church members walked up Morris Road. They chanted the litany of the Blessed Virgin. A twenty-five-foot cross was placed atop the hill. This symbolized the beginning of their segregated parish.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help is more than just a church. It is a symbol of resilience. It represents a community’s determination to practice their faith freely. It serves the Black Catholics of Washington D.C. since 1920.
The church celebrates its rich cultural legacy. This is celebrated every summer at the annual Field Day Mass celebration. Our Lady of Perpetual Help interacts with other Black and non-Black parishes. They use the gifts of Blacks’ spirituality through music. They use dance, education, and spiritual action. They proclaim the Good News to those who do not know Christ.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help offers several services. Sunday Masses are at 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Weekday Masses are held Monday through Friday at 7:00 AM. Confession times are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Novenas are held on Mondays and Wednesdays. Eucharistic Adoration is perpetual except during special Masses. The Rosary is recited on Saturdays and Sundays.
Today Our Lady of Perpetual Help stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community and cultural heritage. As you stand here remember the struggles and triumphs. Remember the dedication of those who built this sacred space. It is a beacon of hope for generations to come.