California Missions: A Guide to the Historic Trails of the Padres

California Missions: A Guide to the Historic Trails of the Padres

Along the strand of the Pacific between San Diego and Sonoma, the intrepid monks of the Order of Saint Francis strung that cordon of missions that were to become, as time went on, the outposts of civilization along the sunset coast of California. Begun in 1769, this chain of churches along El Camino Real was complete by 1823, and in these establishments the devoted followers of Padre Junpero Serra sought to win for Christ and the Crown of Spain devotees among the dusky inhabitants of this land. How well they succeeded 6 may be judged when we learn that often in the more prosperous missions as many as two thousand Indians were being trained at one time. And what was the routine by which these fervent priests of Old Spain hoped to convert the backward natives of the coast into God-fearing, self-supporting and self-respecting subjects of his Hispanic majesty, the king? The system of training prescribed plenty of work accompanied by instruction in the handcrafts and Christian doctrine. To this end, each day, the morning bell assembled the Indians in the chapel for prayers and mass. Following this, breakfast was eaten, after which each went to his assigned task. At eleven oclock dinner was eaten; then a siesta. Work, resumed at 2 P.M., continued until an hour before sunset, when the Angelus recalled all to worship. After prayers and rosary, supper was eaten, after which recreation ensued until early bedtime. ......Buy Now (To Read More)

Product details

Ebook Number: 55931
Author: Brown, Karl F. (Karl Frederick)
Release Date: Nov 11, 2017
Format: eBook
Language: English