Washington National Cathedral serves the Americans as a national shrine. Planners of this Neo-Gothic church hoped it would play a role similar to Westminster Abbey in London. The construction of the cathedral lasted 83 years and ended in 1990. Even without an official government designation, this Episcopal Church cathedral has achieved a status of the national house of prayer. It is widely accepted by religious and political leaders in the United States. It is a venue for events important to the nation such as national prayers, memorial services, funerals of presidents and major US politicians.
