I have never been to the National Cathedral, but have always wanted to see it. Since we were going to be in the Washington D.C. area during holy week, I checked out the cathedral’s schedule. There was a lot going on. I settled on buying tickets to see the Cathedral in Bloom.
The magnificent cathedral is lavishly decorated with flowers for Easter and they keep the bouquets fresh throughout the following week for people to enjoy, adding more beauty to the already impressive architecture.
So once again, we took off with the grandchildren to go exploring.
The Episcopal cathedral was chartered by congress in 1893 and established on Mount St. Alban (the highest point in the city). In 1907 the cornerstone was laid by President Theodore Roosevelt. The construction slowed during periods of economic hardship, so the building wasn’t completed until 1990.
“Our” National Cathedral is for all people. “This Cathedral holds a unique place at the intersection of sacred and civic life. …we strive to serve God and our neighbors as agents of reconciliation; as a trusted voice of moral leadership; and as a sacred space where the country gathers during moments of national significance.”*
“In a city of monuments and memorials, this Cathedral stands apart as a vibrant community of people called together to serve and renew the world around us. Our founders envisioned this Cathedral as a sacred space where the nation could gather in good times and in bad.”*
We used a self-guided tour brochure to find our way around the massive building.
I enjoyed the gothic architecture, stained-glass windows and myriads of flowers.
There was a striking observation gallery on the 7th floor, offering great views of the city.
There were several smaller chapels throughout the cathedral.
I have noticed the choir section on television, when I’ve watched special events at the cathedral. Although there were no flowers on the choir seats, the dark, rich, carved wooden benches were stunning.
This Cathedral took on much more meaning after seeing it and touring it. I want to think of it as our National Cathedral from now on.
My enjoyment of flowers along with my enjoyment of exploring churches made this a special outing for me.
I had a hard time choosing which photos to include on this blog post.
Enjoy.
*Both quotes taken from the Washington National Cathedral brochure.
Beautiful pics and message, Valerie!
Thank you Vic.
Oh, my, that must have been an exquisite tour! The Chapel alone is so beautiful, but the flowers brought the outside into the cathedral in such a beautiful way. So wonderful that your grandchildren got to see this. Keep enjoying your visit, my friend.
We were grateful the grandchildren wanted to go to all these places with us.
They are at a great age to enjoy these adventures!
Thanks for the trip to the Cathedral and Washington DC! Your photos of the cathedral are stunning!
Thank you. It wasn’t too hard to get some beautiful flower pictures.
They were amazing.
I can see why you had trouble choosing images to feature. Every single pic you include shows us something truly beautiful. I would have loved this tour, too. Thank you for taking me along and sharing info about the Cathedral that explains how this is everyone’s place of peace and serenity.
You’re welcome.
I know you would have enjoyed this place!