D.C. & A.M.D.G

Washington Monument

A couple weeks ago, we were in Washington, D.C. enjoying an educational trip at our country's capital.  We had dreams of taking our children on this very trip, to see some of our country's most historical places...It was everything we had hoped.

Picture Perfect

We were so blessed for the opportunity to experience all that we did:
Lincoln's Memorial, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the National Mall, the Smithsonian Castle & Museums - especially the National Air and Space Museum, and the White House were several of the many points of interest that we visited.  Additionally, and more excitedly, we attended Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  An extra special blessing was having my son serve at the Mass.

Serving at The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Conductor (middle server) - looking sharp!

Lincoln's Memorial & National Air & Space Museum

St. John Paul II National Shrine:  Where we were able to venerate a First Class Relic of Saint John Paul II. The Knights of Columbus were entrusted with the relic which was presented by His Eminence Stanislaw Cardinal Dziwisz, the Archbishop of Krakow, back in 2011.
  

St. John Paul II National Shrine

While in town, we attended a reception for the Archdiocese for The Military Services, USA, hosted at the St. John Paul II National Shrine.  We learned more about the work of this "global archdiocese" and those that serve...the motto is:  Serving those who Serve.  This Archdiocese was created, in 1985, by Pope John Paul II.  

We received a pin with the Coat of Arms.  The pin is colored red, white, and blue to recall the colors of the U.S. Flag.  It also has a Miter (indicating a Catholic Diocese), the Bald eagle with an olive branch (Americans bearing peace), a Silver cross in front of the earth (proclaiming Christ throughout the world) and the Gold and Silver crossed Keys of Saint Peter (the Church's mission to offer healing through the forgiveness of sins).  It was a very special evening which my children and hubby & I will never forget.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was so amazing!  I knew that it was going to be beautiful...it exceeded my expectations.  The various places of religious artifacts, the chapels and the art on display were breathtaking.  I definitely want to return...

The National Mall & Memorials

We were blessed with perfect weather and there were still some beautiful autumn foliage on the trees.  Being from California, I welcomed the coldness and was happy to finally make use of my coat, gloves and scarves.  I LOVE the Autumn!  I loved D.C.!

me

This is me, on our last day in D.C., after enjoying a very nice lunch.
When the picture is fuzzy and in black & white, I can tolerate viewing a pic of myself.  lol.  

We found some really tasty and fun places to dine.  This Pizza Pi place was such a great find!  The Occidental Grill was another gem of a place.  The Hamilton was a favorite and was worth a return visit...classic American with a great menu and great tasting food and most importantly, very family friendly.

great pi & beer served here

Visiting the campus of The Catholic University of America was another major item on the "To Do" list.  Nice.  Very, very nice.

The Catholic University of America

We visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum as well as several other museums.  While on one of our walks, we found this church which was "erected about 1792".  

St. Patrick's Church 

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Well, these are just a few highlights from our amazing D.C. trip...we covered a lot of ground, saw a lot of points of interest, visited many museums, and indulged in several delicious food establishments...everyone had a great experience - definitely a successful trip!

I believe my favorite highlights included the evening reception for the Archdiocese of Military Services at the impressive St. John Paul II National Shrine and Sunday Mass at the wondrous Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  

+ Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam +

Sharing my Family Journey over at Catholic Bloggers Network

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Prayer of the Archdiocese for the Military Services

Won't you join me...

Almighty God and Father, look with love upon our men and women in uniform and protect them in their time of need.  Give them health and stability and allow them to return to their loved ones whole and unshaken.  Be with their families and sustain them in these uncertain times.

Grant strength and peace of mind to the Veterans who have given their best for the country they love.  Support them in infirmity and in the fragility of old age.  Teach us to remember their sacrifices and to express our gratitude.

Manifest your tender care to those in the Military Academies who prepare for future service and to those who serve our Nation for from home.  Teach us to remember the sacrifices of those whose efforts contribute to ensuring our way of life.

Bless and multiply the priests who minister to the faithful of the Archdiocese for the Military Services.  Reward their generosity and keep them faithful.

Hear us as we present our prayers to You through Christ our Lord.

~ Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA

www.milarch.org