San Xavier Mission Tour
Last day to buy tickets will be December 8, 2017. A donation of $5 per person to the Patronato toward its on-going restoration efforts would be greatly appreciated.
A National Historic Landmark, San Xavier Mission, also known as the White Dove of the Desert, was established in 1692 by Father Eusebio Francisco Kino, founder of the chain of Spanish missions in the Sonoran Desert. A Jesuit of Italian descent, he often visited and preached in the area, then the Pimería Alta colonial territory of the Viceroyalty of New Spain. Construction of the first mission church, about two miles (3 km) from the site of today's Mission, began on April 28, 1700. Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797. The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church's interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. It is a place where visitors can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space. The church retains its original purpose of ministering to the religious needs of its parishioners. A gift shop is available for souvenirs or to purchase a candle to light. There is also a museum.
We will receive a guided tour by the Mission's volunteer staff. There is a virtual tour on the website which is recommended before visiting. http://www.sanxaviermission.org/
Meet at the Camera Club at 1 PM, and depart at 1:15 PM. Carol Gautsch will be the trip leader. For questions, contact Carol at 520-347-4917 home; 406-850-2742 cell; bratcat08@gmail.com
In order to participate in this event, you must be a member of the GVR Camera Club and GVR.
The GVR Photography Club is located in the Recreation Village of Santa Rita Springs.