Washington D.C. Choir Pilgrimage with Richard Clark
Trip Overview
Experience a spiritually enriching and musically inspiring journey in the heart of the United States. The Washington D.C. Choir Pilgrimage offers choirs a unique opportunity to combine sacred music, faith, and history—guided by renowned Catholic composer and conductor Richard J. Clark.
This pilgrimage brings together meaningful liturgical experiences, iconic landmarks, and powerful moments of reflection. From singing in sacred spaces to exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of Washington, D.C., this journey is designed to deepen both musical excellence and spiritual connection.
Accommodation
The group will stay at:
Hampton Inn NoMa Union Station
501 New York Ave NE, Washington, D.C. 20002This centrally located hotel offers convenient access to key pilgrimage sites, including the Basilica Shrine and the Franciscan Monastery, ensuring a comfortable and well-connected stay.
Meet Your Conductor:
Richard J. Clark
Richard J. Clark is an accomplished and versatile musician—composer, conductor, organist, pianist, and songwriter—currently serving as Director of Music for the Archdiocese of Boston and at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. There, he performs on the historic 1875 E. & G. G. Hook & Hastings organ (Opus 801). His long-standing career includes twenty-eight years at St. Cecilia Parish in Boston, where he became Director of Music at just twenty-three after first serving as organist. He has also dedicated decades of service to the Jesuit community as Chapel Organist at Boston College. In addition to his parish and cathedral work, Clark has contributed extensively to archdiocesan liturgies, conferences, and recording projects, including directing the Office of Divine Worship Saint Cecilia Schola in recordings of the ICEL chants.
Widely praised for both his performance and compositional work, Clark’s music has been described as “compelling,” “stirring,” and “transformative” by major publications. His compositions have been performed internationally, with notable premieres and performances in Paris, Russia, and across the United States by distinguished musicians and ensembles. His works are published by several leading sacred music publishers and have been broadcast across the U.S. and Europe. Clark has appeared at prominent venues including St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, Saint-Eustache in Paris, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. Beyond performance, he is active as a recording artist, educator, and leader in the field of sacred music, serving on the executive board of the National Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions. Born in New York City and raised on Long Island, he now lives in Milton, Massachusetts with his wife and four children.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & National Mall
- Arrival in Washington, D.C. and transfer to the hotel
- Check-in and time to settle in
Afternoon:
- Walking tour of the National Mall
- Visit iconic landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument
Day 2 – Capitol & Museum of the Bible
Morning:
- Guided tour of the United States Capitol
- Learn about American history, governance, and architecture
Afternoon:
- Visit the Museum of the Bible
- Explore interactive exhibits and rare biblical artifacts
Day 3 – Saint John Paul II Shrine & Rehearsal
Morning:
- Visit the Saint John Paul II National Shrine
- Time for prayer, reflection, and learning about his legacy
Afternoon:
- Choir rehearsal led by Richard Clark
- Musical preparation for upcoming performances
Day 4 – Franciscan Monastery & Choir Performance
Morning:
- Sing for Mass at the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America
- Directed by Richard Clark
- Followed by a guided tour of the monastery and its Holy Land replicas
Afternoon / Evening:
- Special choir performance (details to be announced)
Day 5 – National Basilica & Holocaust Museum
Morning:
- Attend Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
- Guided tour of the Basilica
Afternoon:
- Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- Time for reflection and remembrance
Hotel
Hampton Inn NoMa Union Station.
The hotel is conveniently located near major pilgrimage sites, including the Basilica Shrine and the Franciscan Monastery, offering easy access and a comfortable stay for the group.