“To be a tangible manifestation of Christ in the community.” That is the motto of St. Peter’s Church on Capitol Hill. Founded in 1820, St. Peter’s Church stands as the second oldest Catholic parish in Washington D.C.
Today we explore the rich history of St. Peter’s Church. Its story is filled with faith, resilience and community spirit. The church’s location near the United States Capitol Building attracts many members of Congress. It is commonly known as the House church.
Plans for a second Catholic church in Washington began as early as 1801. John Carroll sought permission from President Thomas Jefferson to build a church on South Capitol Street. The parish served residents of the Navy Yard, Washington Arsenal, and Capitol Hill.
In May 1820, a committee formed including influential Catholics like James Hoban. They raised funds for the church’s construction. Archbishop Ambrose Maréchal appointed a pastor and canonically established the parish in 1820. Daniel Carroll donated land on Capitol Hill for the original church building.
The first church was a plain brick building. White and black Catholics worshipped together. Black parishioners sat in the upper gallery.
Many pastors led St. Peter’s Church through the years. Edward A. Knight expanded the church with confessionals, a choir gallery and a belfry. Francis Boyle opened the church’s first parochial school. The Sisters of the Holy Cross taught students starting in 1868.
In 1889, they demolished the original church. Cardinal James Gibbons dedicated the foundation of the new building in 1890. Mass was said in the new church on Christmas Day that year. The granite and marble building featured a 140-foot spire. It seated 950 people and had French glass windows.
Tragedy struck on March 17, 1940. A fire destroyed the church building. A spark from a blowtorch caused the blaze. Assistant priests Charles W. Nelson and Frances E. Sullivan rescued the Eucharistic vessels. Nearby churches offered assistance.
Rebuilding began in June 1940. The church reopened on Easter Sunday in 1941. Archbishop Michael Curley presided over the opening.
Recent upgrades have enhanced St. Peter’s Church. New lighting systems and controls were installed in 2020. The church now enjoys energy savings and customized lighting scenes. Small crosses etched onto the marble walls were found and painted gold.
St. Peter’s School is the oldest parochial elementary school in Washington D.C. Its roots trace back to 1826. Daniel Carroll expressed his hope for a school on Capitol Hill. The school was eventually built in 1868 on land donated by Thomas Bayne.
Today, St. Peter’s School offers a pre-kindergarten through eighth grade program. St. Peter’s Church continues to be a vital part of the Capitol Hill community. Its history reflects faith, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. It truly embodies its motto.