This is the Mission San Xavier del Bac (White Dove of the Desert) just outside of Tucson. Where All Is Calm All Is Bright.
Mission San Xavier del Bac
The first foundations of the church were laid in 1700. The present church was built between 1783 – 1797 by the Franciscan Fathers Juan Bautista Velderrain and Juan Bautista Llorenz.
Upon entering the nave you find whitewashed walls enhanced with beautiful paintings and designs.
The domes and arches near the main altar are breathtakingly beautiful. The photos come nowhere near capturing its beauty.
The White Dove of the Desert
The main altar features a triple apse.
The transept area also features lovely paintings, saints, woodwork, and plasterwork.
“For to us a child is born, to us, a son is given: and the government shall be on his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” ~Isaiah 9:6
All Is Calm All Is Bright
“Silent night, holy night,
Son of God, love’s pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth ”
Joseph Mohr
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That is incredible- next time Im in Arizona I will have to head out there. Have a blessed Christmas.
That church is beautiful! And what a lovely post for Christmas Eve.
I’ve been there Laura and it is truly spectacular! Thanks for reminding me!Merry Christmas to you!MGM
A most beautiful post Laura. Blessings to you.
So Beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
Hi! Please put this on the list of “places to go” for my next visit!! Love your holiday posts! 🙂pea
Thanks for the post as it brings back many memories. My husband I were there many years ago(in the 70’s) My daughter was there recently and bought a book that tell all about San Zaviar Mission..
That is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing it with us. I hope that you have a WONDERFUL Christmas.*hugs*
How truly beautiful! Thank you so very much for sharing these breathtaking pictures.
What beautiful pictures. Thank you for sharing on Christmas Eve. Have a wonderful evening with your family and a blessed Christmas day.love,Jane
Absolutely STUNNING! Thank you for sharing! Merry Christmas!
This is amazing!MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for visiting my site. May you have a blessed Christmas as well. That church is amazingly lovely. Thanks for sharing the pictures.MichelleShabby Creations
Quite beautiful! Perfect for Christmas!
Gorgeous!
Thank you so much for the tour! I hope that you and your family had a wonderful and blessed Christmas.Melissa
These old churches have such history. They have such beautiful decor. There is a feeling I get when I step into one of these churches that I don’t get from any other.
I’ve been there! And it is beautiful. Great post!