National Cathedral Association (NCA)
Connecting Cathedral Friends Nationwide
A Rich History of Support
The National Cathedral Association (NCA) unites a network of steadfast supporters who preserve this national treasure, enhance its mission, and tell the Cathedral’s story as a house of prayer for all people.
Supporters who make an annual gift of $60 or more are eligible for National Cathedral Association (NCA) Membership Benefits.
NCA Through the Years
1899
The first Cathedral committees were formed to help secure the land atop Mount St. Alban as the site of Washington National Cathedral. These committees also helped secure the funds for a mortgage on the property.
1900s
Bishop Henry Yates Satterlee, first Episcopal Bishop of Washington, charged the NCA to “evoke interest among all the churchmen of America in the Cathedral at the National Capital.” Early publicity efforts included transporting a plaster model of the Cathedral around the country to encourage donations toward the building’s construction.
1933
At the height of the Great Depression, the NCA was officially recognized “to advance the interests of and to solicit funds and gifts for [the Cathedral] and to disseminate information for charitable, educational, and religious purposes” on the Cathedral’s behalf.
1950s
As the NCA grew, committees formed in each diocese of the Episcopal Church. Regional volunteer leaders and an NCA board of trustees provided structure to the network of Cathedral ambassadors.
1960s
Over the years, NCA members contributed to many milestone construction projects as well as the commissioning and upkeep of artwork within the Cathedral, including the magnificent NCA Window by artist Ervin Bossányi.
1990s
The NCA supported efforts to complete construction, celebrating the placement of the final pinnacle in September 1990. NCA membership reached its apex in the years that followed, and members continued to raise awareness for preservation and operating needs.
2000s
The NCA adopted a variety of institutional models, including a brief hiatus and restructuring in the mid-2000s. In 2013, a reinvigorated NCA brand united and recognized all Cathedral supporters and friends with tiered set of membership benefits.
Today
NCA members from across the country continue to support the Cathedral’s mission, programs, and the preservation of this national treasure. Whether drawn by worship, music, history, architecture or the unique role the Cathedral plays in our national life, NCA members enjoy special opportunities, including tours, a dedicated newsletter and the award-winning Cathedral Age magazine.