Located on Thomas Circle, National City Christian Church remains the grandest fulfillment of a 19th-century vision to establish a monumental Disciples of Christ presence in the capital. It certainly holds that title to this day, commanding the skyline with a majestic limestone facade and towering columns.
Besides its usual services, this year, Candlelight at the historic National City Christian Church is welcoming music fans to a host of new tributes to epic bands, iconic pop stars and more!
Background on National City Christian Church
The monumental building was designed by John Russell Pope, the same architect who did the Jefferson Memorial. Officially finished in 1930, it boasts a striking neoclassical design, inspired by St Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London. Inside the church you’ll find intricate stained glass windows commemorating two U.S. presidents affiliated with the church, James Garfield and Lyndon Johnson.
The church bears this name for its role as the national representative of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), whose denomination grew from the Stone-Campbell Movement. Uniquely, the property is owned and funded by the NCCC Foundation on behalf of the entire denomination, rather than by a local congregation. It is currently led by The Rev. Stephanie Kendell, the church’s first-ever woman called to be their Senior Minister and President
What can you do at National City Christian Church
Besides its sermons, what locals usually know this emblematic spot for is the magical National City Christian Church Candlelight concerts. These performances pay tribute to some of the greatest artists in music, from classical composers to iconic pop and rock superstars — as the venue is lit up by thousands of flickering candles. Another popular music event is Friday Music at Midday, where you can catch recitals, choir music, and more.
6 June 2026 20:45 + more dates
11 July 2026 20:45 + more dates
6 June 2026 18:45
5 June 2026 18:45 + more dates
5 June 2026 20:45 + more dates
27 June 2026 18:45 + more dates
27 June 2026 20:45
30 October 2026 18:45
Where is National City Christian Church and how to get there?
National City Christian Church is situated directly on Thomas Circle in Downtown D.C. If you’re reaching the church by public transport, the nearest subway stop is McPherson Square Station (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines), followed by Farragut North Station (Red Line). What’s more, the 52, 53, 54 bus lines run North/South and stop almost directly in front of the church at 14th St & P St or 14th St & I St.
Does the church have on-site parking?
The church has its own parking garage with an entrance located on “N” Street NW (between 14th and 15th). Additionally, there are several commercial “PMI” or “Colonial” parking garages within a two-block radius, specifically on 14th and 15th Streets.
What church does the president go to in DC?
The NCCC is not the go-to church for American presidents. Every president since James Madison has attended a service at St. John’s, across the park that fronts the White House.
What church did JFK go to in DC?
President John F. Kennedy was a Roman Catholic, and his family frequently worshiped at Holy Trinity. Kennedy’s attendance is actually commemorated by a plaque in front of the church building.
Nearby venues in D.C.
Studio Theatre, Morrison-Clark Historic Inn and the National Geographic Museum are all located within walking distance, 10 minutes away tops. If you’re exploring the city, make sure to check out these spots too to get a better understanding of the city’s history and cultural life.
And if you’re wondering where else to see Candlelight, there are more Candlelight venues spread across the city that host classical tributes every season.
