Oldest Catholic Church in the 13 Colonies Tells Story of Religious Freedom | EWTN News Nightly

As many settlers came to America seeking religious freedom, Catholics in the 13 colonies often faced discrimination and persecution. In Maryland, one historic church in St. Mary's County survived those challenges. St. Francis Xavier Church—built by Jesuits in 1731—is believed to be the oldest church in the 13 colonies. It was the only space where Catholics could practice their faith without drawing attention to themselves. EWTN News' Catherine Hadro has more. ------------ EWTN News Nightly provides the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Join our Host Veronica Dudo, our Capitol Hill, White House and Rome Correspondents, as well as many other diverse guests daily, to get the latest from the U.S. and the Vatican on topics regarding our Catholic faith and interests. ------------- EWTN News Nightly airs on EWTN weekdays at 6pm & 9pm ET. ------------ Don't miss an episode of EWTN New Nightly. Get updates here: https://www.ewtn.com/tv/shows/ewtn-ne... ------------- Sign up today to receive the EWTN News Nightly newsletter: https://www.ewtn.com/enn ------------- Follow EWTN News Nightly on Social Media: Facebook:   / ewtnnewsnightly   Twitter:   / ewtnnewsnightly   Instagram:   / ewtnnewsnightly   ------------- Subscribe to EWTN News YouTube channel here:    / @ewtnnews   ------------- You can support the EWTN News mission: https://bit.ly/3qDR1qf