Saint Marys Church

Have you heard the story of St. Mary’s Church? It’s not just a beautiful building in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C. It’s a testament to resilience and faith. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church stands on 23rd Street. It was founded in 1867. It holds the distinction of being the first African American Episcopal congregation in Washington, D.C. Imagine the city back then, still recovering from the Civil War. A group of former members of the Church of the Epiphany felt a calling to create their own space. A space where their community could worship and thrive. Initially, they gathered in a repurposed Civil War barracks. They called it St. Mary’s Chapel for Colored People. Their first service was held on June 9, 1867. The present church building, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, was designed by Renwick, Aspinwall & Russell. It was completed in 1887. Notice the intricate details. The timber roof, the Tiffany glass windows. These aren’t just aesthetic features. They represent the dedication and artistry of those who built this church. St. Mary’s wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a cornerstone of the community. It housed St. Mary’s Industrial School. This school provided sewing and cooking classes for young girls. It offered Sunday school for children. St. Mary’s has witnessed the evolution of Foggy Bottom. From a sparsely settled area to the bustling neighborhood it is today. It continues to serve as a spiritual home for a diverse congregation. This includes families with deep roots at St. Mary’s. It also includes newcomers to the city and students from nearby George Washington University. So, next time you pass St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, remember its story. It’s a story of perseverance, community, and unwavering faith. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of change, some things endure.