The historic Mission San Gabriel Arcángel campus is set to reopen to the public this Saturday after being closed for three years due to the pandemic and an arson fire in July 2020. The reopening coincides with the Feast Day celebration of the mission’s founder, St. JunÃpero Serra.
“We are excited to once again welcome visitors to Mission San Gabriel,” said Rev. Parker Sandoval, vice chancellor for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. “As the place where the Gospel of Jesus Christ was first proclaimed in this land, the mission holds deep spiritual significance for all Catholics in Los Angeles.”
The Mission Church, which has been meticulously restored, houses the altarpiece that dates back to the 1790s. Despite being damaged in the 1812 earthquake and the 2020 arson attack, it has been lovingly repaired. The Mission Museum now features a newly curated exhibit titled “Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, 1771-1900: Natives, Missionaries, and the Birth of Catholicism in Los Angeles.” This exhibit showcases baptismal records, textiles, baskets, paintings, and audio recordings. The museum also includes a special memorial in honor of the Native American community and an exhibition dedicated to the contemporary Gabrieleño community. Additionally, visitors can listen to 18th-century music composed for the California missions and explore readings from the letters of St. JunÃpero Serra.
One of the highlights of the exhibit is a complete name list of the 7,054 Native Americans who were baptized at the mission between 1771 and 1848.
Inside the museum, visitors can marvel at a 1775 confessional booth and a beautiful silk beaded chasuble from the 1770s, which is believed to have been worn by St. JunÃpero Serra during one of his visits. The religious paintings on display are the works of renowned artists from 17th and 18th century Mexico. Additionally, a set of Stations of the Cross from the 19th century adds to the museum’s rich collection.
The mission suffered significant damage from the fire that occurred on July 11, 2020. The roof was destroyed, and the church was substantially damaged. Thankfully, the blaze was stopped before it reached the altar, museum, and rectory. Firefighters faced a challenging situation as portions of the burning roof fell on them. Despite the obstacles, they successfully evacuated and initiated a defensive fire attack.
Over 85 firefighters from multiple engine and truck companies worked tirelessly for over two hours to extinguish the blaze. The estimated cost of the damage, including projected revenue loss, exceeds $9 million. The individual responsible for the arson, John David Corey, has been arrested and charged.
The reopening of the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel campus marks a significant milestone for the community. After years of restoration and recovery, the mission stands strong as a symbol of faith, history, and cultural heritage. Visitors can once again experience the spiritual and historical significance of this sacred site.
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