History

Church History

Emmanuel was the first Catholic Church established in Dayton. It has experienced many historical moments over the years, including the Great Flood of 1913.

Originally, it was predominantly German territorial parish staffed by Diocesan priests. Since 1956, Emmanuel has been an extra-territorial parish staffed by Marianist priests and brothers. Emmanuel has been favored with two beautiful churches. The first was built in 1837; the second one in 1871 and is one of the largest church buildings in the Archdiocese. Many Daytonians have been registered, baptized, married, and buried from Emmanuel Church over the years. Our parish is still thriving and growing.

May God bless Emmanuel’s current parishioners and staff who can be proud of their strong heritage.