The National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, D.C.

[ca. 1960–1979]

This shrine, the largest Catholic church in the United States is a tribute to American Catholics to our Blessed Mother as patroness of the country. In the upper church can be seen the main altar under the baldachin or canopy which rises majestically overhead to a height of over 46 feet. Beyond this on the north apse wall in gleaming, red and gold mosaic we see in mighty proportions Christ the lord of the universe. The shrine is open to visitors 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.