Since 1841, St. Vincent de Paul Church has stood as Baltimore’s oldest Catholic parish in continuous use, welcoming generations of worshippers through its iconic Greek Revival columns. Originally built to serve the waves of Irish immigrants arriving to dig the C&O Canal and build the B&O Railroad, the church quickly became the spiritual heart of the city’s Jonestown neighborhood.

Over the decades, St. Vincent’s has been a place of transformation—once Baltimore’s largest Catholic parish in the 1880s, its congregation evolved with the city’s shifting demographics. From opulent renovations in the 1890s to innovative late-night Masses in the 1920s (drawing everyone from newspaper printers to late-night revelers), the church has long adapted to meet the needs of its diverse community.

Beyond its historic architecture, St. Vincent’s has been a leader in social justice and activism, championing anti-war efforts, liturgical reform, and outreach programs for the homeless and underserved. Today, its congregation remains a mix of people from all backgrounds, drawn together by faith, service, and a commitment to Baltimore’s most vulnerable. Whether you’re visiting for its history, its mission, or its quiet beauty, St. Vincent de Paul Church offers a glimpse into the soul of the city.