Jan 19, 2010

St Martin of Tours

Where: 1900 North Capitol St NW, DC, 20002
When: Various times 2009 - 2010
Web: Information on St Martin's is located here on the ADW website; and here on the parish's own website.
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We attended several Masses here in 2009 and 2010. St Martin's is located in inner-city Washington and serves a predominantly black congregation. While many of these are locals, some are from Maryland (perhaps former residents with an enduring attachment to the church). The parish is served by a single priest and a deacon, both of whom are much loved and very popular.

Masses here have lots of singing (to a traditional pipe organ), clapping, and occasional shouts during the service. Masses followed the traditional rite for the most part, though the sign of peace took about 15 minutes. Most of the congregation - and the priest and deacon - traversed the church greeting everyone (hugs, handshakes, and slaps on the back) and at times catching up on news. This practice is not for everyone but appears popular with this congregation.