In the United States, where a significant proportion of the population follows Christianity, churches can be found throughout the cities as you stroll along. Washington D.C. is no exception, and due to its small size, you can encounter different churches within a short walk, creating a dense concentration of religious sites.
Among these churches, let’s explore St. John’s Church, known as the closest one to the White House and often referred to as the “Church of the Presidents.”
As the “Church of the Presidents.”
St. John’s Church is located just north of the White House, on the east side of 16th Street, across H Street from Lafayette Square. The area surrounding the church includes upscale hotels like the Hay-Adams and various government buildings, emanating an aura of tradition and formality.
The name “St. John” refers to St. John the Evangelist, one of the authors of the Gospel in the Bible. Many churches in America are named after characters from the Bible.
The church’s architectural style is reminiscent of Greek temples, with a facade resembling the Parthenon, commonly seen in structures like the United States Capitol. Its vibrant cream-colored exterior stands out amid the predominantly white and dark brown buildings in Washington D.C.
Due to its proximity to the White House, it is known as the “Church of the Presidents,” as it has been visited by various presidents before their inauguration and on other occasions since the early 19th century.
St. John’s Church is an Episcopal Church
St. John’s Church, situated close to the White House, belongs to the Episcopal Church, which is predominantly composed of wealthy individuals in the United States. While originally referring to the Church of England, the Episcopal Church in America has its roots in the Scottish Episcopal tradition, partly influenced by the context of the American Revolution. The church displays both the American flag and the flag of the Episcopal Church, with the upper left section of the latter’s design resembling the flag of Scotland.
Worship for All
St. John’s Church holds daily worship services, allowing anyone to attend. On Sundays, the services are held at 7:45 AM, 9 AM, and 11 AM. Additionally, there are services on weekdays at 12:10 PM and 7 PM.
While everyone is welcome to participate in the worship, please note that photography inside the church and entering or leaving during the service are generally prohibited.
A Moment of Quiet Prayer at the Church of the Presidents
While Washington D.C. offers numerous attractions, taking a moment for quiet prayer at St. John’s Church, the closest church to the White House, could be a unique experience. To truly enjoy the sights of Washington D.C., understanding and sharing the local culture and values is the key.
You can easily reach the church on foot from the White House. Alternatively, to efficiently explore Washington D.C. and its surrounding attractions, using a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus would be the best option. The buses conveniently stop right in front of Lafayette Square, allowing easy access to St. John’s Church and other notable sites near the White House.
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