The White Dove of the Desert

 A trip to southern Arizona would not be complete without a visit to San Xavier del Bac, also known to the locals as The White Dove of the Desert.  This historic church was founded by Father Kino and construction was started in 1783. In 1887 a rare earthquake damaged part of the mission.  I was hoping to get some pictures of it without the scaffolding, but no such luck.  Half of the restoration on San Xavier has been completed, but there are still years remaining for the second portion.  It will be amazing once it is completed.

Restrictions were in place because of COVID.  The hours were shortened, social distancing was in place and the fry bread stands run by the Pascua Yacqui tribe were missing. Our group of 9 was allowed to enter into the church all by ourselves. We stood patiently in line with our faces sufficiently covered.  The following week, Governor Ducey announced that masks were no longer required in the state of Arizona.

As we entered through the front doors, I noticed the unique door handle.  I'm assuming it represents the snake from the Garden of Eden.  At any rate, both it and the wooden door have survived over 240 years of Arizona sun beating on them.  Imagine how hot that metal handle gets during the summer months!

Access is now allowed only at the back of the church where you can light candles.  The rich beauty of the altar, walls and ceiling remain as they have for centuries.

Outside the church was a separate building and courtyard. No tourists are allowed, but at least I was able to take some pictures.

This must have been a welcome respite for weary travelers hundreds of years ago. The thick adobe walls would have kept the church much cooler than the outside temperatures during the long summer season. 

East of the church is a hill with a white cross on top of it.  We discovered it isn't part of the church property but rather a part of the Pascua Yacqui Indian Reservation.  After many years and much legislation, the Pascua Tribe finally gained status in 1994 as a historical tribe recognized by the Federal Government.