Gazing upon St Mary’s Catholic Church & Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, one can almost hear the echoes of German hymns. These hymns rose from the basement of St. Matthew’s Church in 1845. This marked the humble beginnings of St. Mary’s parish. The parish was formed to serve the growing German Catholic immigrant community in Washington D.C. St Mary’s Catholic Church & Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima stands as a testament to their faith and perseverance. Initially, the parish was located at 15th and H Streets NW. The German Catholic community yearned for their own sacred space. They wanted a place where they could hear mass in their native tongue. Their dream came true through the generosity of General John Van Ness. In 1846, he donated the land on 5th Street, between G and H Streets NW, to the immigrant community. St Mary’s Catholic Church & Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima found its permanent home. Van Ness’s deed came with a condition. The parish was required to construct a brick or stone church within one year. Divine services had to be held regularly. Otherwise, the land and building would revert to Van Ness’s heirs. The first church was built, fulfilling the deed’s requirements. The current structure, the second on the site, was completed in 1891. Architect E. F. Baldwin designed St Mary’s Catholic Church & Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. He drew inspiration from the German Gothic style. The church is constructed of rough ashlar blue stone and granite. Its central tower and spire reach skyward. They embody the verticality characteristic of Gothic architecture. St Mary’s Catholic Church & Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima stands as a symbol of the German Catholic community’s devotion. It reflects their dedication to preserving their heritage in a new land.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to