When the first Catholic Settler arrived

The Catholic roots in Greenville trace back to 1833, when the first Catholic settler arrived in what was then called Charleston. Bishop John Purcell of Cincinnati arranged for priests from nearby towns to serve the growing community, celebrating Mass on two acres of donated land from Mr. Caron. As the congregation grew, it became clear that a more suitable worship space was needed. In 1863, the parish purchased a small brick church previously used by a Baptist congregation. A few decades later, in 1888, a Catholic school was established, led by the Sisters of Charity of Mount St. Joseph, Ohio, marking a significant step in the parish’s commitment to education and faith formation. By 1889, the original church required extensive repairs, prompting plans for a new building. After years of preparation and construction, the new church was completed and dedicated to Our Lady in 1902. This beautiful structure continues to serve as a spiritual home for generations of Catholics in Darke County.