The World Heritage Trail in San Antonio wove through the landscape from The Alamo in the heart of downtown along the river to Mission Espada. In total, five Spanish colonial missions were established in the early 1700s. All the missions were founded by Franciscan priests and friars. Most were from Spain because at that time Texas was “New Spain.” Brave souls to settle along the San Antonio River during that time. In fact, San Antonio was named after a Franciscan – Saint Anthony of Padua.
As Secular Franciscans, it was a pleasant surprise for us to stumble upon this pronounced Franciscan influence.
In addition to The Alamo, we decided to tour two more missions: San Juan and San Jose because the churches were still intact, and Mass offered at each. The Concepcion and Espada were not active.
Mission San Juan was a mix of stone ruins surrounding a white stucco church. The outside walls were part of the interior rooms that lined them. A mighty fortress of hardened stone. Within the walls a community co-existed from different cultures. The sanctuary was beautiful exuding a peace only found in a place of prayer. How many prayers had been offered in this holy place?
San Juan Mission has an amazing history and unique community. If you’re curious, please click on the following link:
Mission San Jose was known as the “Queen of the Missions” because of its size. Beautifully preserved, the chapel offered a sanctuary for quiet contemplation and prayer. For 300 years, parishioners sought refuge and renewal within its walls. There was also a gift shop on the premises along with housing for the current Franciscan priests and friars. A special place to connect with God.
To find out more about Mission San Jose, please click on the following link:
Our day exploring continued our pilgrimage through the Catholic Franciscan heritage that was a part of San Antonio. Worth the visit that inspired deeper contemplation.
Certainly, Love is All with God.
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