In 1945, Bishop Peter Ireton granted 16 Black Catholics the opportunity to establish Our Lady Queen of Peace (OLQP) in Arlington County for dignified worship. These pioneers, including Joseph Bowman and Alice Butler, laid the foundation for a welcoming worshipping community. On June 15, 1947, OLQP Church was dedicated, marking the beginning of its history. The Spiritan community, represented by pastors like Fr. Hackett and Fr. Kanda, has served the parish since its inception. OLQP's 75-year journey has been marked by a commitment to social justice, guided by Matthew 25:35.

In the 1960s, amidst racial segregation, OLQP addressed poverty, employment, and housing through initiatives like the Catholic Interracial Council and the Matthew 25 Bazaar, aiding the needy. The 1970s saw an influx of Central and South American parishioners, leading to Spanish liturgy since 1972. Fr. Joseph Nangle expanded the Hispanic community's influence, celebrating diversity in annual bilingual masses and community events. Under Frs. James Healy and Jeffrey Duaime, OLQP continued its tradition of social justice and community service. Ministries addressing local and international issues flourished.

The Queen of Peace Refugee Office and Haiti Ministry exemplify OLQP's dedication to aiding those facing social problems and building relationships abroad. OLQP's history culminates in a 21st-century church community with 1,500 diverse families. Sixteen dreamers, through determination and faith, transformed OLQP into a reality beyond their imagination. This community, a tapestry of races and cultures, symbolizes divine possibilities. OLQP remains dedicated to bringing God's peace and justice to the neighborhood, community, nation, and world.