The altar's central figure is San Francisco Javier, patron
Saint of the mission. Writing enthusiastically about
church services at the missions, the Spanish Jesuit, Jaime
Bravo, said, "On Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, at
the pealing of the bells, all the military and other folk
assemble for the Rosary. They recite as a chorus
before the main altar and sing the litanies."
Nowadays, widows or older women appear to be
the devoted guardians of the missions and the faith. Visitors
are well advised to offer a respectful word and donation. |