“Gratitude is the recognition of all the blessings and graces in our life.” That’s a quote from Saint Raphael Church. Today, we’re exploring Mission San Rafael Arcángel. It stands as a replica of the original 1817 mission in San Rafael, California.
The original Mission San Rafael Arcángel was founded on December 14, 1817. Father Vicente Francisco de Sarría established it. It served as a medical asistencia or sub-mission. Its primary goal was to care for the sick indigenous people. It was linked to Mission Dolores in San Francisco.
Saint Raphael was chosen as the namesake. He is the archangel of bodily healing. This mission holds the distinction of being the 20th in the chain. There were 21 missions established by the Spanish in Alta California. The mission system began in 1769. The northernmost mission is Mission San Francisco de Solano. It is now the town of Sonoma.
Initially, Mission San Rafael consisted of one building. This single structure housed sleeping quarters and a cooking area. It also served as a worship space. As the population grew, so did the mission. Dormitory sleeping areas were added. Two-story adobe work structures appeared too. These new buildings accommodated carpentry, sandal-making, and boat building. Blacksmithing took place here as well.
Mission San Rafael thrived. In the late 1820s, it reached its peak. Over 1,000 people resided here. The Coast Miwoks composed the majority of the population.
However, everything changed in 1834. Mexico secularized the missions. Following the Bear Flag Revolt in 1848, decline set in. The buildings at Mission San Rafael deteriorated. They were eventually abandoned. Ultimately, they were torn down. By the 1850s, the native population dwindled to about 250.
Despite the destruction, hope remained. A series of worship spaces were built on the site. Then, in 1949, a replica of the original mission was constructed. It stands adjacent to the 1919 parish church. This new building is known as the Mission Chapel. It stands on the approximate site of the original hospital mission.
Today, Mission San Rafael is part of The Church of Saint Raphael parish. Two worship spaces grace the property. The main Parish Church was built in 1919. The Mission Chapel, a replica, reflects the original 1817 Mission.
Mission San Rafael’s history is unique. It began as a medical asistencia. It became a full-fledged mission. It suffered destruction. Now, it stands reborn as a symbol of faith and healing. It serves as a reminder of the past. It also serves as a vibrant center for the present Catholic community.
The mission may be modest in size. It may lack extensive grounds. But Saint Raphael’s is an active parish. It serves a diverse community. Religious services are held daily. They take place in either the Mission Chapel or the main parish church.