Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Circa 1998 - 2006
For a number of years this was the website for the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center located in Washington, DC.
Content is from the site's 1998-2006 archived pages.
The current website for the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center is found at: www.jp2shrine.org/en/index.html
Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
3900 Harewood Road, NE,
Washington, DC 20017
202-635-5400
The Pope John Paul II Washington, D.C.
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A Cultural Center . . . Throughout the centuries, the Church has helped to shape national cultures and has been enriched by them. The Church in the United States in particular has benefited from the richness of many cultures. We cannot fully understand our Catholic heritage without examining the dynamic relationship between faith and culture. |
| A declaration of Catholic values . . . The Center will be a highly visible institution that will ensure that a Catholic perspective will have a prominent place in our national discussion of moral, ethical and spiritual issues. A center for scholarship . . . In honor of the Holy Father . . . |
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Cultural Center's Advisory
Board of Bishops
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Adam Cardinal Maida |
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Most Rev. Francis B. Schulte Most Rev. Donald W. Wuerl |
Francis Cardinal George Most Rev. John J. Myers |
Most Rev. Thomas V. Daily Most Rev. Thad Jakubowski |
Discover the Cultural Center
Situated in a peaceful setting in northeast Washington, DC, the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center offers an environment in which to explore one's own faith and learn about the role of faith in the new millennium. Using interactive and multimedia technologies, the Cultural Center artfully creates a memorable experience for people of all faiths.
On arriving, visitors are struck by the museum's breathtaking architectural design - an impressively modern form distinguished by a wing-shaped roof that seems to float above the facility. Already acclaimed for its strong architectural vision, the building creates an expectant tone for what awaits inside - a unique experience that engages the minds and nourishes the souls of all those who visit.
Benedict XVI
ANGELUS
Saint Peter's Square
Fifth Sunday of Lent
2 April 2006
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
On 2 April last year, just as today, in these very hours and here in this very apartment, beloved Pope John Paul II was living the last stage of his earthly pilgrimage, a pilgrimage of faith, love and hope which left a profound mark on the history of the Church and of humanity. His agony and death constitute, as it were, an extension of the Easter Triduum.
His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, encourages the Cultural Center's efforts to bring the light of the Gospel and the richness of the Church's intellectual and artistic heritage to bear upon the great issues facing contemporary American society. It is his hope that its activities will always promote that sincere and respectful dialogue between the worlds of faith and culture which was so close to the heart of the late Holy Father, and in this way remain faithful to the lofty vision which inspired its founding.
-- Angelo Cardinal Sodano
Secretary of State
Vatican City
History of the Center
The Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, has called us to be not afraid, but to boldly meet the challenges of the future in fidelity with the Gospel. In 1988, during a meeting with the Holy Father, the then Bishop Maida proposed the building of a Catholic Center that would help people address the challenges of faith and help inspire people in their faith. The concept of the Center developed into a cultural center inspired by the sentiment of the Holy Father that it must not focus on him but on the message, of not only of this Pope, but also, of his predecessors.
The Cultural Center incorporates three major entities. It is an interactive museum featuring modern technology that challenges the visitor to explore their faith and to interact with others in a dialogue about faith. It is an art museum featuring changing art exhibits from the Vatican Museums, as well as other art exhibits. It is, also, a place of scholarly research, exploring the concepts in Catholic thought that have been laid out by Pope John Paul II. With the concept of the Center established, the question became where this idea would be realized. The Holy Father selected Washington, DC, calling it the crossroads of the Third Millennium. The realization of the dream began in 1997 with the start of construction on the Center. The site chosen was a wooded 12 acres adjacent to The Catholic University of America and near both the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
In November of 2000, the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center was dedicated in a series of events with American Cardinals Maida, Hickey, Law, Bevilacqua and Keeler and the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo. The dedication served as a sneak peek for those who helped to create the Center through either financial donations or their labor.
In March 2001, the Center opened in a grand ceremony with the presence of President George W. Bush; the Governor of Vatican City, Cardinal Szoka; American Cardinals Maida, Hickey, Keeler, McCarrick and Law; Polish Cardinal Macharski; the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo and elected officials from the United States Congress.
Welcoming visitors to the Center is a statue donated by the Polish Conference of Catholic Bishops, as a sign of their support of the Center's mission. It was officially unveiled during Polonia Day celebrations held at the Center by Polish Cardinals Macharski and Gulbinowicz and American Cardinal Maida on June 9 of 2001. It currently rests on a bed of limestone that is sandblasted with the Center's logo. The logo is a symbol of the Center's mission, and it symbolizes all of the foundational ideas of the Center as a connection to the Bishop of Rome and as a place to challenge and explore one's faith.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops designated the Shrine a national shrine on March 14, 2014.
"You have a facility that offers a unique social and spiritual atmosphere in a top-notch environment. ... your institution has the potential to impact peoples lives and our world in a positive way. We were extremely impressed and inspired by the presentation and effectiveness of your interactive displays."
Plan a Visit Circa 2006
The Saint John Paul II National Shrine welcomes pilgrims who wish to encounter Jesus Christ through the life and teachings of St. John Paul II.
Visitors undertake a spiritual journey with this great saint and leave inspired to continue the New Evangelization he taught was the vocation of every Christian.
Visitors can attend daily Mass and receive the sacraments in the Redemptor Hominis Church and venerate a first-class relic of St. John Paul II in the Luminous Mysteries Chapel
Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
3900 Harewood Road, NE
Washington, DC 20017
Phone: 202-635-5400
Fax: 202-635-5411
E-mail: info@jp2cc.org
Hours of Operation
Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday 12 noon to 5 p.m.
Please call 202-635-5400 for holiday schedule.
Admission
Admission to the Cultural Center is by donation.
Suggested Donation: $5 individuals; $15 families; $4 seniors and students
NOTE: According to the current website for the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, the center is:
Open 365 days a year
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
No admission fee
Group Visits
Group fee: $4 per person
To book a group visit, please fill out the Group Reservation Form (see link above). For additional information about group visits, please e-mail GroupSales@jpcc.org or call 202-635-5475.
Accessibility
The Cultural Center is handicap accessible. Wheelchairs are available and provided free of charge. Please see Admissions Desk staff for assistance.
Café
Light refreshments are available in the Café, including box lunches for $6.50 and soft drinks for $1.00. Visitors are at all times welcome to bring their own food and take advantage of the Café seating area.
Activities for Children
Children 0-5: Build with blocks; create art rubbings of saints, angels and nature; ring the bells; play dress up; and watch Bible stories under a tent.
Children 5-8: ring the bells; discover melody selections from Catholic hymnals; and create an electronic stained-glass window.
Children 8 & up: participate in a scavenger hunt, available at the Admissions Desk.
Perhaps the best way to visualize the Center's mission is as a safe haven for those who are journeying on the road to Emmaus. As people come together here, they will, at some point, begin to share their faith. It is through learning about and facing the challenges of faith and also sharing with others along our journey of faith that we come to discover the very presence of God and understand our universal call to holiness as followers of Christ. It is the hope of the Center that it can provide the atmosphere and the resources needed for those who visit to discover their faith or to just reflect on their journey to Emmaus. And although each visitor's stay may be short, the Center invites us to put our faith into action.
It is this vision that makes the Center a place where people can discover the Church's past, participate in its present, and most importantly join in building its Third Millennium.
NEWS 2002-2006
May 2, 2006
Carmelite Lecture Examines the Many Facets of Mary at Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
WASHINGTON - "Mary and Carmel," a talk by Rev. Emmanuel J. Sullivan, OCD, Ph.D., will examine the many dimensions of Mary as mother, patron, sister, and queen and her presence in the life of members of the Carmelite order at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center on May 13 at 3 p.m.
April 24, 2006
Winners of National Essay Contest Announced
Young Scholars Examine Pope John Paul II's Recipe for Peace
WASHINGTON - Students who explored Pope John Paul II's guidelines for peace earned $23,000 in scholarships in the final round of competition in the national essay contest sponsored by the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center on April 22.
April 19, 2006
Scholarships Announced
CleanItSupply sponsors a merit based scholarship program
Philadelphia - The janitorial supplies distributor has funded a merit based scholarship for Christian Studies in association with the Cultural Center. Applicants may apply during their junior and senior years for awards ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. Awards are announced in July for the following September school year.
First place winner Blaise Blain from Albuquerque received a $10,000 college scholarship for defense of his essay titled "A Christian Response to Terrorism." Second place went to Kelsye Gould from Rapid City, SD, who won a $5,000 scholarship for her essay and discourse "Pope John Paul II: A Pope for Peace." Third place winner Joseph Siddons of San Diego received a $3,000 college scholarship for his essay, "Just Another Day."
April 14, 2006
Pope's Play about Love Comes to Washington: The Jeweler's Shop Opens May 19 at Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
WASHINGTON - Pope John Paul II's acclaimed play about the trials, tribulations and triumphs of love, The Jeweler's Shop, will open at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center on May 19 for a limited engagement.
Newsday called this drama about love and family, "Marvelous. A message for our times." Gannett Newspapers described it as "surprisingly secular" and a "compelling evening of entertainment that touches the audience in unexpected ways."
The three-act play with musical introductions will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. from May 19 through June 18, except for Memorial Day weekend. The Jeweler's Shop was written by Karol Wojtyla in 1960 while he was bishop in Krakow.
February 14, 2006
Spirituality Lectures at Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
WASHINGTON - The second lecture in the Carmelite spirituality lecture series will be presented at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center on February 25 at 3:00 p.m. George Mangiaracina, OCD, S.L.L., will speak about Liturgical Spirituality. The talk bridges spirituality and liturgy with reflections on Vatican II teachings.
The lecture series, A Living Charism: Carmelite Spirituality for a Second Century, is sponsored by the Institute of Carmelite Studies and commemorates 100 years of the Discalced Carmelite Friars in the United States.
March 9, 2005
Nelson Shanks' Papal Portrait Now on View at Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Museums
WASHINGTON - A portrait of Pope John Paul II by famed portrait painter Nelson Shanks is on display at the Museums at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center. The stunning oil on canvas portrait portrays the Pope in St. Peter's Basilica, offering benediction in the area known as the Great Crossing. The portrait, on extended loan, is on view in the Cultural Center's Lower Level. Prior to its display at the Cultural Center, the portrait traveled with the exhibit St. Peter and the Vatican: The Legacy of the Popes to four American cities in 2003-2004. Shanks completed the portrait in October 2002.
July 8, 2004
Papal Tapestry Finds Permanent Home At Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Museums
Washington, DC -A tapestry that was the backdrop for Pope John Paul II as he celebrated Mass in Central Park during his 1995 visit to the United States has finally found a permanent home at the Museums at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center. The Family of Christ tapestry now hangs prominently in the Cultural Center's rotunda. The 55-foot wide, 19-foot high hand-made tapestry depicts families of every nationality placed in the shape of a cross with Christ in the middle, symbolizing the inclusiveness of the Church.
January 13, 2003
Visit Solomon's Temple
New Museum Exhibit Opens at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
Washington, DC - An exhibit of five detailed models of the temples that were built on the Ancient Temple Mount in Jerusalem opens at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center January 31 and runs through January 11, 2004.
May 1, 2002
Prized Portrait of Popular Saint On View at Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
Washington, DC - A unique, almost life-size, painting of one of the 20th Century's most revered saints now graces a special place at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center. A portrait of St. Therese of Lisieux, affectionately known by Catholics throughout the world as the Little Flower, hangs in the chapel at the Cultural Center. The portrait, painted by her sister Celine Martin (Sister Genevieve), who, like St. Therese, was a nun of the Carmel of Lisieux, is a gift from the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of Philadelphia. The extraordinary portrait was considered one of their most prized possessions.
Executive Committee
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His Eminence |
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His Excellency His Excellency |
His Excellency Mr. Michael H. Gorman |
More Background on JPIICulturalCenter.com
The Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, now known as the Saint John Paul II National Shrine, stands as a prominent religious and cultural institution in Washington, D.C. Its evolution from an ambitious museum and think tank to a major Catholic shrine reflects both the enduring legacy of Pope John Paul II and the shifting landscape of Catholic cultural engagement in the United States. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the Center and Shrine, covering its history, mission, exhibits, architecture, audience, reviews, press coverage, and its broader cultural and social significance.
History and Founding Vision
Origins and Inspiration
The concept for the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center originated in 1989 during a meeting between Pope John Paul II and then-Bishop Adam Maida of Green Bay. Maida initially proposed an institution akin to a U.S. presidential library to honor the Pope. However, John Paul II envisioned a center not focused on himself but rather on exploring interfaith issues and the intersection of faith and culture. This vision shaped the Center as a place for dialogue, scholarship, and public engagement with the Catholic faith in a pluralistic society.
Development and Construction
After Maida became Archbishop of Detroit in 1990, he spearheaded fundraising efforts, ultimately raising about $50 million from thousands of donors. The Archdiocese of Detroit contributed significantly, lending $17 million directly and guaranteeing a $23 million mortgage. The total construction cost reached $75 million. The Center was built on a 12-acre site adjacent to The Catholic University of America and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, leveraging proximity to these major Catholic landmarks.
Opening and Early Years
The Cultural Center opened its doors to the public in March 2001 with a high-profile ceremony attended by President George W. Bush, cardinals, and congressional leaders. The Center’s mission was to serve as a museum, Catholic think tank, and a hub for exploring faith and culture through interactive exhibits, academic research, and art.
Features and Exhibits
Galleries and Interactive Experiences
The Center was renowned for its innovative, interactive approach to religious education and cultural exploration. Its five main galleries included:
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Gallery of Church and Papal History
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Gallery of Faith
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Gallery of Wonder
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Gallery of Community
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Gallery of Imagination
These galleries offered exhibits on the history of the Church and papacy, global expressions of faith, the relationship between humanity and the physical world, the role of art in expressing the divine, and the interplay of world cultures with Catholicism.
Interactive media activities, testimonial stations, and group polling exercises invited visitors to reflect on moral issues, share personal insights, and engage with the Church’s teachings in a hands-on manner. For instance, the “Finding Harmony” activity encouraged groups to discuss ethical dilemmas, while “Ring the Bells!” allowed visitors to make music together, emphasizing the communal nature of faith.
Art and Collections
The Center displayed works by Christian artists from around the world, including pieces from the Vatican Museums. The permanent collection highlighted Marian themes and included notable artifacts such as a bronze cast of John Paul II’s hand and memorabilia from his papacy.
Scholarly and Community Functions
Beyond its exhibits, the Center housed a library, auditorium, and conference rooms, serving as a venue for academic research, lectures, and intercultural forums. Scholars explored the impact of the papacy on world cultures and promoted values related to human dignity and social justice.
Transition to the National Shrine
Financial Challenges and Sale
Despite its ambitious programming and vision, the Center struggled financially. Its location, somewhat removed from major tourist routes and public transportation, and the decision to charge admission in a city known for free museums, limited its reach. The aftermath of the September 11 attacks further reduced tourism, exacerbating financial woes.
By 2009, after Cardinal Maida’s retirement, the Center was put up for sale. In 2011, the Knights of Columbus, a major Catholic lay organization, purchased the property for $22.7 million, with the intent to transform it into a shrine dedicated to John Paul II.
Transformation and Renovation
The Knights of Columbus undertook significant renovations, including the creation of a 16,000-square-foot permanent exhibit on John Paul II’s life and legacy, and the development of two major liturgical spaces: the Redemptor Hominis Church and the Luminous Mysteries Chapel, both adorned with mosaic art by Rev. Marko Rupnik. The Shrine was elevated to national status in April 2014, coinciding with John Paul II’s canonization by Pope Francis.
Visitor Experience and Audience
Who Visits?
The Shrine attracts a diverse audience:
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Catholic pilgrims seeking spiritual enrichment
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Scholars and students interested in religious studies
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Tourists exploring Washington, D.C.’s religious and cultural institutions
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Families and children, thanks to interactive and educational programming
Non-Catholics and non-Christians have also reported feeling welcome, with the exhibits and staff fostering an inclusive environment.
What to Expect
Visitors can explore the permanent exhibit “A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II,” attend daily Mass, venerate a first-class relic of the saint, and participate in the recitation of the rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet. The Shrine also features a play area for children, interactive kiosks for adults, and spaces for reflection and prayer.
Reviews and Public Reception
Visitor Reviews
Reviews of the Center and Shrine are overwhelmingly positive:
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Many are surprised by the depth and quality of the exhibits, even those already familiar with John Paul II’s life.
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The interactive displays and personal memorabilia are frequently highlighted as moving and educational.
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The Shrine’s staff are consistently praised for their hospitality and knowledge.
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The architecture and mosaics receive special mention for their beauty and spiritual ambiance.
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The experience is described as emotional, inspiring, and enlightening, with many visitors recommending allowing several hours for a full visit.
Notable Quotes from Visitors:
“Wow, I can’t believe this place is free… Love the interactive displays and videos. Will definitely be back!”
— Susannah K., Yelp
“What an amazing shrine to a great man, a Saint… He managed to unite many faiths and people. A wonderful place for reflection.”
— Albert D., Yelp
“The church and chapel are both just lovely. Daily Mass, frequent confession times, recitation of the rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. We thought the museum was top-notch!”
— Ann S., Yelp
Press and Media Coverage
The Center’s opening in 2001 received national media attention, with coverage by outlets such as PBS. Reports emphasized the Center’s high-tech, interactive approach and its aspiration to serve as a “museum of faith” relevant to people of all backgrounds. Some press coverage also noted skepticism about the Center’s cost and location, questioning whether the substantial investment would yield the hoped-for impact.
Cultural and Social Significance
A Unique Institution
The Center and Shrine represent a unique blend of museum, cultural forum, and place of worship. Unlike traditional museums, its mission has always been explicitly tied to faith formation, dialogue, and the promotion of Catholic values in a diverse society.
Legacy of Pope John Paul II
The institution embodies the legacy of Pope John Paul II, whose papacy was marked by outreach to youth, interfaith dialogue, and the call for a “New Evangelization.” The Shrine’s exhibits and programming continue to promote these themes, serving as a living testament to his impact on the Church and the world.
Academic and Artistic Contributions
Through its scholarly forums, art exhibitions, and community events, the Center has contributed to the study of Catholicism’s interaction with culture, the arts, and global society. Its collections and research initiatives have attracted academics and artists from around the world.
Contemporary Issues
In recent years, the Shrine has faced challenges related to the art of Rev. Marko Rupnik, following allegations of abuse against him. The Knights of Columbus have responded by covering Rupnik’s mosaics in the chapels, reflecting ongoing debates about how institutions address such controversies while preserving their artistic and spiritual heritage.
Architecture and Design
Modern and Inviting
Designed by architect Leo A. Daly and exhibit designer Edwin Schlossberg, the building is notable for its modern, wing-shaped roof and expansive, light-filled spaces. The design aims to create an atmosphere of openness and spiritual elevation, setting the tone for visitors’ experiences.
Functional Spaces
The 130,000-square-foot building includes galleries, chapels, a library, auditorium, conference rooms, and spaces for children’s activities. The integration of technology, art, and architecture reflects the Center’s commitment to engaging visitors on multiple levels—intellectual, emotional, and spiritual.
Examples of Programming and Events
Exhibitions and Artifacts
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“A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II” — The centerpiece exhibit, featuring personal items, documents, and multimedia presentations about the Pope’s life and teachings.
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Art from the Vatican Museums and Christian artists worldwide, with a focus on Marian themes and the universality of the Church.
Educational and Community Events
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Lectures, conferences, and forums on faith, culture, and social justice
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Family activities, including interactive exhibits and play areas for children
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Liturgical celebrations, including daily Mass and opportunities for confession and prayer
The Pope John Paul II Cultural Center, now the Saint John Paul II National Shrine, stands as a testament to the vision of engaging faith and culture in the heart of the nation’s capital. Its history reflects both the aspirations and challenges of Catholic cultural outreach in America. Through its innovative exhibits, scholarly activities, and spiritual programming, the Shrine continues to attract and inspire visitors from all walks of life, fostering dialogue, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and the enduring legacy of Saint John Paul II.