St. Francis Xavier Church (Cincinnati, Ohio)

St. Francis Xavier Church is a Roman Catholic parish church located in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. It is often referred to locally as "St. Xavier Church" and is historically significant as the oldest cathedral in the city and the mother church of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.

Founded in 1819 by Bishop Edward Fenwick, the first Bishop of Cincinnati, the church initially served a primarily German-speaking congregation. The original structure, a smaller brick building, was replaced by the current edifice, a grand Gothic Revival style church designed by architect Samuel Hannaford. Construction on the present church began in 1859 and was completed in 1861, with the spire added later.

The church is noted for its stained-glass windows, its high altar, and its overall architectural grandeur. Throughout its history, St. Francis Xavier Church has played a significant role in the religious and social life of Cincinnati. It has been served by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) since 1840 and continues to be an active parish within the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. It is located near Xavier University, though the university moved to a different location. The church is a landmark building in downtown Cincinnati and a testament to the city's rich religious heritage. The church is also known for its music program.