After more than four decades of relationship-building and fund-raising, the new National Presbyterian Church and Center, at Nebraska Avenue and Van Ness Street, N.W., welcomed worshippers in September 1969. Designed by the architectural firm of Harold E. Wagoner, it features white marble and limestone structures in the Neo-Gothic style, a water fountain in the shape of the Celtic cross, and a 173-foot tall Tower of Faith.
The Main Sanctuary seats more than 1,200 worshipers.
Among other decorative windows, the Chapel of the Presidents contains contains six faceted, stained-glass windows by Willet Studio depicting the spirituality of U.S. presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Dwight D. Eisenhower. Throughout the complex, visitors are greeted by passages from the Bible and quotes by noted religious figures, including John Calvin and John Knox.
The campus is a testament to the hard work dedicated by numerous men and women to realize a monumental vision. Next time you find yourself in Washington, D.C., add a visit to the National Presbyterian Church to your itinerary.
