About Basilica of St. John the Baptist · Canton, Ohio
The Basilica of St. John the Baptist and St. Peter Parish in Canton, Ohio, is a vibrant Catholic community founded in 1845 to serve German immigrants. It combines two historic churches — the Basilica of St. John the Baptist and St. Peter Church — under one pastoral leadership. The parish offers a full range of ministries, education, and sacramental programs, including a Catholic school and adult faith formation. It welcomes all to worship and invites newcomers to join its spiritual journey.
- Established
- 1845
- Patron
- St. John the Baptist
- Rector
- Reverend Brian C. Smith
- Diocese
- Youngstown Diocese
Why belong here
Join a parish that has served generations with faith and service, offering strong Catholic education through its school, vibrant ministries for all ages, and a welcoming community dedicated to living out the Gospel. Whether you’re new or longtime, you’ll find opportunities to deepen your faith and serve alongside others.
Mass times at Basilica of St. John the Baptist
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- 5:00 PM Tuesday at Basilica of St. John the Baptist
- 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Saturday prior to 4:00 PM Mass
- By Appointment
About Us
Welcome to the Basilica of St. John the Baptist and St. Peter Parish in Canton, Ohio. Founded in 1845, St. Peter Church served the needs of the German immigrants to our area. Our parish community has been a source of faith and community service for many generations. We take great pride in our past and look forward to a future where we can make present the message and love of Jesus Christ. Our parish school helps to form our youngest generation of believers in Gospel values as we provide them with an excellent education. As you visit our website, I hope that you will discover in us a vibrant and loving community of Christian believers. If you are a parishioner, I hope you will find these pages helpful in providing you with the opportunity to share more intensely in the work and service our parish community. If you are visiting our “on-line” home, I extend to you an invitation to join us in our spiritual journey.
Our Staff
Reverend Brian C. Smith, Administrator; Mr. Robert Sullivan, Organist and Director of Music/Liturgy; Mrs. Madison Harwood, Director of Religious Education; Mrs. Pamela Pope, Coordinator of Parish Activities; Mrs. Lori Roethlisberger, Parish Secretary; Mr. Joseph Zuschak, Bookkeeper; Greg Poverline, Maintenance; Missy Trainer, Maintenance.
Ministries
Martha and Mary Ministry for Women, Men's Ministry, Youth Group, Scout Meeting, Prayer Group, Church Picnic, We Need Ushers.