St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and Rectory

The stone and brick religious complex features a 190-foot bell tower containing three bells cast at the Henry Stuckstede Foundry in St Louis.

The church construction began in 1883 under Father John Gruender's direction, replacing an earlier log structure from 1840 that served German immigrants.

The sanctuary displays stained glass windows depicting Catholic events including the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Resurrection, Ascension, and Holy Ghost descent.

The church maintains regular services in its location at 212 Mission Avenue, while preserving historical elements through ongoing maintenance and restoration projects.

The church houses a basement museum established in 1988 containing personal belongings of Father Ferdinand Helias, who founded seven parishes in central Missouri.

Location: Missouri

Inception: 1923

Website: https://sfxtaosmo.org

GPS coordinates: 38.50778,-92.06889

Latest update: September 23, 2025 14:25