Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle — Attraction in Washington

This is my home parish, and I highly recommend it. Both the multilingual massess and the Catholic parishioners make this place are a very welcoming community to people from all walks of life, who want a Catholic Christian path for them.

First of of all, it is by far a very inclusive, diverse, welcoming, multilingual, and lively community.

Second, the building is absolutely beautiful, worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Third, both the staff and major masses are bilingual, and the Spanish communities are large and multinational.

Fourth, the cathedral often has seminary students from different charisms (e.g., Dominicans, Franciscans, Paulist, etc.).

Fifth, I can say that all types of people can feel welcome here, and find a place to worship and or join a group of their interest.

Sixth, the choir is amazing. Don't miss any of their performances. They are a treat for your heart and soul.

Seventh, the social events are frequent, and the social justice group is very active in many causes.

All in all, this is a very representative Catholic community of Washington, DC and its people. Make sure you visit at least once to see how welcome you can feel here.

A special mention goes to Msg. Jameson who has created a Christian Catholic, and welcoming place...

I was in D.C on business and decided to go to afternoon Mass. I first noticed the lack of holy statues and visible tabernacle when I entered the church. Then, I was very troubled and extremely disappointed when the priest celebrating Mass completely disappeared when it was time to hand out Holy Communion. I couldn't see him at all. Instead, there were two women standing there giving out Communion!!! NO PRIESTS!!! To say I was shocked is an understatement. I've been Catholic my whole life and NEVER have I been to Mass and Communion was given by two lay persons (women), while the priest is no where to be seen. I was so disgusted, I just got up and left. It felt very much like a protestant service. What has our Holy Roman Catholic Church come to? And people wonder why there isn't a belief in the Real True Presence of Our Lord Jesus in the Most Holy Eucharist anymore?!!!! It's treated like a worthless, meaningless saltine cracker! These women's hands are NOT consecrated....they have no business touching the Hosts. Weekday Mass that day had maybe 25 people in attendance so, easy enough for a priest to hand out Communion by himself in 2 - 3 minutes flat. There were no need for Eucharistic Ministers at all. I won't ever return to...

I used to go to Calvert School on 1717 RI Ave, Sad that It's no longer there! I made my 1st Holy Communion there at St. Matthews, and walked in many, many processions over the years. I always especially loved the St. Frances of Assisi chapel. Always dreamed of a small intimate wedding there when I grew up. That never happened, sigh. I was married in Ohio instead. Now when I do get back there, I can't even go in there to say a rosary, it's gated. :( I also miss the black & red Celtic cross on the floor at the front center isle. Sister always reminded us to follow the circle around when marching in processions. Now It is an ugly beige plaque that says JFK's casket once stood on that spot during his funeral Mass. Yeah, I get that momentous occasion, I remember it well, but I miss that beautiful marble cross that guided my foot so many times! Reminiscing aside it is still a fantastically beautiful church, reflecting in its own man-made way, the beauty & majesty of God's glory! If you are a tourist, planning on going to Mass there, go at least one hour early so you can look around at all the beauty displayed inside, or you will be distracted...