Old St. Mary's Church

Old St. Mary’s exists to proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, Savior, and God. As we grow in holiness by being His disciples, we invite all to give themselves totally to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. With Mary, our Mother and the Patroness of Old St. Mary’s, we join our voices with those of many generations in praying: “We are the servants of the Lord. Let it be done to us according to God’s word” (see Luke 1:38).

St. Mary’s is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the oldest standing house of worship in the city of Cincinnati. Many German immigrants settled in this area, and to this day this neighborhood is called “Over-the-Rhine.” Here, in 1841-42, the German Catholics of Cincinnati built St. Mary’s Church, reportedly using bricks baked in their own kitchen ovens.

In this way they preserved the memory of the great churches of Germany, with their elaborate stained glass windows and massive pipe organs. The parish continues to preserve the rich liturgical, musical and cultural heritage of Catholic tradition. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is offered in Latin, German, and English. St. Mary’s is known for its splendid music (chant), its Marian statues, and its privileged high altar.