Gazing at Saint Paul’s Church, imagine stepping back in time to 1870. A hush falls over the crowd gathered for Christmas Eve. They are about to witness history. Saint Paul’s Church, then located near Washington Circle, is about to hold the first Anglican Midnight Mass in America. The flickering gaslight illuminates the faces of the expectant congregation, a mix of the curious and the devout. The scent of pine boughs and beeswax candles fills the air, mingling with the quiet murmur of prayers.
Saint Paul’s Church, a historic landmark in Washington D.C., has been a beacon of faith and tradition for over a century and a half. Its story began in 1866 as a small mission, growing into a full parish within a year. The first church, designed by Emlen T. Littell, was consecrated in 1893. It bore witness to the changing tides of the city, evolving with its community, undergoing expansions and renovations, its walls echoing with hymns and prayers.
The church’s commitment to its Anglo-Catholic traditions became deeply ingrained in its identity. From its early adoption of daily Holy Communion and the use of altar candles to the establishment of the Reserved Sacrament, Saint Paul’s carved a unique path in the American Episcopal landscape. Interestingly, the church was also a pioneer in its financial practices. It was among the first in Washington to abolish pew rents and embrace the use of offering envelopes.
The music program at Saint Paul’s Church deserves a special mention. The tradition of a vested boys’ choir began as early as 1869, and in 1911, the church launched the city’s first organ recital series. The angelic voices of the choir have resonated through the hallowed halls of the church, enriching countless services and celebrations.
However, the journey of Saint Paul’s hasn’t been without its trials. In 1944, the church faced a significant challenge. The federal government acquired the original property to build a hospital for George Washington University. This seemingly devastating event led to a rebirth. Under the guidance of renowned architect Philip H. Frohman, who also designed the Washington National Cathedral, a new Saint Paul’s Church rose on K Street. The first service in this new building was held in June 1948.
Even in its new home, Saint Paul’s has continued to evolve. A major renovation in 2009 added an accessible entrance, improved music facilities, and incorporated a neighboring townhouse. Today, Saint Paul’s Church stands as a testament to its enduring spirit. It continues to welcome people from all walks of life, drawn by its rich history, its Anglo-Catholic tradition, and its vibrant community. The legacy of the first midnight mass lives on, a symbol of the church’s unwavering faith and its place in the heart of Washington D.C.