Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala — Attraction in San Diego

My wife and I have lived right across the street from the mission for 4.5 years my wife 7 years. She also did her confirmation there, we attend church for every major holiday and for any celebrations the church has. I myself have a degree in theology and study the word everyday, and have my own personal connection with GOD THE FATHER. Before my wife and I got married we reached out to the church to attend marriage classes and were told we would get a call back, we also wanted to be married there. For over a month we called and still no call. My wife has been battling ovarian cancer for over 7 years and is currently in the hospital with no future promised. I called the the mission to have a a Priest come out to anoint her. On the first call a woman rudely told me that there is a Chapman in the hospital, I responding by asking is it a Catholic one she responding with idk you will have to find out. I hung up try to get one hospital did not have one. I then called back and asked if one could be provided for the mission. I gave her my information and said she would call me back. She called me back and informed me that there was no priest available, and then said I see that you are not registered with our church. I informed her about all the church events that we attend and the conversation was ended by yeah you're not registered. It would probably be best if you find another priest. Her behavior and response to me was cruel mean what kind of a Catholic treat another Catholic like that and since when does a person or people have to be registered to the church in order to have a priest come out to anoint them? This lady did not act in the best interest of God, or for my wife, this church seems as if it's all about the money and the profit, and to me is a disgrace to our culture and belief in Christ Jesus, the Bible says that careful one another bare one another's burden. It's obvious this woman does not read her Bible or follow any of God's commands considering the way I was treated with my sick wife I would not recommend Trish to anyone unless you're ready to donate and register yourself to get the service...

California's first mission church, San Diego de Alcala was the beginning of mission building up the El Camino Real, culminating at Mission San Francisco Solano in Sonoma. On our way to Barona Casino & Resort for the weekend, we stopped by the mission to delve into history from long ago.

The old chapel is on display, to see how worshippers prayed & attended service. The newer church holds more parishioners and is in the traditional columnar shape.

On the left of the chapel, a courtyard garden offers the opportunity for reflection amongst greenery, robust statues & bubbling fountains.

Ongoing excavations on the premises reveal the framework of old buildings, and dwellings of the Kumeyaay native americans give visitor's a peek to their living conditions.

Parking is available in the front, with a larger parking lot in the rear. I believe there is a suggest donation of $5, but when we went, the grounds were empty, save for a few people, and we weren't aware of any admission fee.

I always enjoy exploring historical sites, and Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala was no exception. Having been to the larger & more well kept Mission San Juan Capistrano, San Diego de Alcala was a tad underwhelming. However, being the original of the mission churches, it's historical significance is unquestionable. There is controversy on Father Junipero Serra & the missions, in regards to their benefit or lack thereof to the native americans, but Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala is still part of our state's rich history, and worthy of seeing up...

The Historic Mission makes for a momentous visit. The Mission has been maintained in a way that has preserved the rustic roots from which it sprang. The Mass held in the Main Sanctuary is a deeply worthwhile experience as you are surrounded by the weathered icons of many years past. For those who are devout Catholics, plan on going when Fr. Raymond P. Napuli is presiding, as you will be assured of a mystical experience of deep reverence for the Holy Body and Blood of Christ in the Liturgy of the Eucharist. You may check the Calendar of Presiding Schedule on the Mission de Alcala web site. Please know that the Main Sanctuary flooring is made up weathered and highly uneven bricks. Plan accordingly with the shoes you wear and walk carefully so as not to trip or stumble. Parking is also a challenge and can be confusing. There is a small parking lot at the very base of the Mission on San Diego Mission Rd, which parking there requires a climb of many stairs. If you come in on the entryway which GPS will direct you to a driveway that skirts the front of the Mission, continue all the way across the mission buildings, and then follow the curve to the left to find two connected parking lots, a small one in proximity to the Antique Mission Building, and the bathrooms, ~where the fountain is the centerpiece of a roundabout, and a larger parking lot beyond the black gate that leads to the St. Francis Chapel. This is very special location of ministry for the Catholic Faith that goes back a couple hundred years plus! ...