St. Peter's Catholic Church, Richmond

Saint Peter's Catholic Church, located in Richmond, is the oldest Catholic church in the city and an institution with a rich history and active community involvement. Originally established to serve a predominantly Irish American congregation, the church has a storied past that reflects significant historical and social changes.

The architecture of the building is designed in the Neoclassical style, similar to that of the Church of Saint Philippe de Roule in Paris, France. John Banister Tabb, a distinguished poet from the Civil War era, was one of the notable individuals who worshiped at Saint Peter's. His extensive collection of 38 books is preserved in the public library of Richmond.

From 1850 until 1906, during the foundational years of the Diocese of Richmond, Saint Peter's functioned as the cathedral and the diocesan seat, a period that highlights its significance in the local Catholic community. Following the construction of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in 1906, Saint Peter's continued to serve its parishioners, maintaining a steady congregation of about 300 members.

The church's history also includes a noteworthy aspect of inclusivity and support for African American Catholics during the post-Civil War era. The church's basement was once the gathering place for the city’s "colored Catholics," including notable individuals such as Emily Mitchell and Julia Grandison, who had significant personal histories of resilience and determination in the face of societal challenges. As the African American congregation grew, the church facilitated the establishment of Saint Jos Church to better serve this growing community.

Today, Saint Peter’s continues to attract parishioners from diverse economic and social backgrounds, many of whom travel significant distances to participate in its small, intimate community. The church actively supports social welfare through its involvement in initiatives like the Down Town Community Ministry and CARITAS, which aid the needy and homeless. Additionally, Saint Peter's partners with local services to offer emergency help with rent, medication, and utilities, underscoring its commitment to community support.