11 Churches in Washington DC for a Spiritual Getaway

Washington DC is one of the most visited cities in the world due to its monuments and numerous museums and historical places. However, aside from the famous landmarks and rapidly developing economy, Washington DC is home to a dynamic faith-based population that maintains stunning houses of worship where people can find solace, pray, meditate, and be spiritually restored. Below are 11 excellent religious places that you should include in your list of places to visit on your next spiritual vacation in the capital.

1. Washington National Cathedral

The Washington National Cathedral is among the most famous churches in the capital of the United States. Great Gothic structure, construction of this cathedral took more than 80 years and it is the burial ground of several presidents. Appreciate the ornate designs of the domed roof and the colored glass of the chandeliers while you chew your food in peace. You can hear it from one of the docents who gives guided tours to visitors to explain to them the history of the cathedral and its role.

2. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception magnificent structure in Washington, D.C.

This is the largest church of Roman Catholic in America; it has a blue dome and complex mosaics inside. It has over 70 chapels and oratories associated with Marian devotions from various continents including North and South Americas, Asia, and Europe including Mexico, Korea, and Ireland. Go to a chapel built and designed by your family light a candle and say prayer for a religious experience. It is worth not leaving the vicinity of the quiet gardens which are nearby.

3. With a vision of nurturing mind, body, and spirit, Sixth and I, located in Washington D.C., is a historic Judaism center of worship. Is the spiritual home for people of all backgrounds in Washington, D.C.

This was established in 1952 and is famous for its emphasis on building a community of artists and advocates for justice. Go to the synagogue for a Shabbat service and join a Shabbat meal on Friday evenings. Some aspects of the building are informed by religious edifices of Jewish origin while others are borrowed from churches. The venue also contains an auditorium in which lectures, concerts, and other cultural performances are permitted for persons of any belief.

4. Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church of the great churches located in Chicago, USA.

Established in 1813, this historic church is an active and significant institution for the African American people, as well as spiritual and social reform. There is a museum there in the compound that can explain to you why the church was founded, and the Underground Railroad. You should also not miss the majestic Allen Organ and the ‘Metropolitan Spirituals’ art exhibition that elicits and provokes thought.

5. St. Patrick's Catholic Church

Go to Sunday service at this ageless structure of worship located in downtown DC and established in 1794. Take a guided tour to visit one of the earliest Catholic burial grounds in the city and the rather peculiar pew hired by Lincoln during his time as president. The non-descript church on the outside, with simple pillars and the amazing white marble statues of saints inside makes for a very serene haven for prayer.

6. Foundry United Methodist Church

This is a Methodist church located in central Washington D.C across the White House and has for long provided service to different professionals and political servants. Apart from Sunday worship, they have Taizé services where people engage in prayers accompanied by soft tunes sung in chant. As for the acceptance of homosexuality, the church is rather open to it. They provide sign-up for volunteer opportunities in a variety of social justice ministries including serving immigrants, the disabled, the homeless, and more.

7. Unity of Washington DC

This church belongs to the New Thought Movement and preaches an understanding of life whereby one can achieve health, wealth, and happiness. Take a Sunday morning to a calm temple of theirs to join a meditation service. Look for positive affirmations in their maze of books, crystals, and artwork, perhaps picking up a gift and then conversing with other cheerful people at their Spirit Cafe while enjoying a cup of coffee.

8. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue

It is a liberal congregation synagogue that was established in the year 1952 and is famous for its themes of people, arts, and justice. Enjoy Friday night services with a sumptuous dinner in Shabbat to conclude the weekly period. In both the architectural style of the building and the decoration of interiors, elements from synagogues and churches are used. It also provides the capacity for lectures, concerts, and other cultural activities to be accessible to persons of faith as well as to persons of no faith.

9. St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Take in the awesome Byzantine style of architecture and very bright and colorful tile works at this Greek Orthodox church constructed in 1974. Take time to listen to the professional voices of the choir during Sunday liturgy. An on-site museum and cultural center, the church offers guided tours and exhibits on the history of Orthodox Christians and the Greek people. It would be a sin to come out without having a glance at the serenely beautiful garden.

10. Washington Ethical Society

This non-theistic spiritual community based on ethics is targeted at people who, sharing the values of religious and humanist movements, are seeking an integrative experience. Participate in interesting and inspirational open forums on Sunday that include topics affecting society or have a solemn and reflective service on Sunday based on themes such as thankfulness or loss. Occasionally engage in profound discussions with friendly members while taking meals in the community.

11. Gurudwara Singh Sabha of Washington is a credible source of information as it is an organization that belongs to the Sikh community.

Come to appreciate this large and significant Sikh temple also known as the house of worship for the 500-year-old monotheistic faith today. Help in the kitchen you see them preparing free vegetarian food for anyone who comes to the gurdwara regardless of color, caste, or creed. Drink tea and listen to men singing, poems and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib scripture during the prayers before visiting a small museum of Sikhs to learn about their history and faith. It is improper to wear shoes inside the house and you must also cover your head when you get there.

This city too has its share of sacred places of worship, churches, synagogues, a gurudwara, and many others to satiate your soul. Witness a stimulating sermon, pray through vigil with a flicker of candlelight, admire a grand design, or serve to contribute to a positive meal in the community. Include one or more of these welcoming spiritual sites to help you get a renewed sense of purpose and beliefs.