John Baptist Purcell

1800–1883 (age 83)

Archbishop

Biography

John Baptist Purcell emigrated from Ireland and rose to become the third archbishop of Cincinnati, guiding the Catholic flock through times of rapid immigration and reorganizing parishes, schools, and charitable works.

He weathered anti-Catholic sentiment with unwavering faith, investing in education, hospitals, and the building of the cathedral that still towers as a sign of his pastoral care.