Mission Basilica of St. Bonaventure, Ventura, California, USA Verified listing

Mission Basilica of St. Bonaventure, Ventura, California, USA

Mission San Buenaventura, now called the Mission Basilica of San Buenaventura, stands in Ventura, California. The Order of Friars Minor founded it on March 31, 1782. The mission serves as a Catholic parish in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. It became the ninth mission in Alta California and the last one that Junípero Serra personally established.

Church leaders planned to found the mission in 1770. However, military escorts were unavailable, so they delayed the opening. Therefore, the mission started twelve years later than expected. Despite this, it quickly became a vital center of religious and community life.

The friars built the mission with a church and a quadrangle for living and working. Unfortunately, in 1793, fire destroyed the first church building. The friars rebuilt the church, using local materials and community labor. Today, the mission’s church and garden remain from those early days.

The mission honors St. Bonaventure, a 13th-century Franciscan saint and Doctor of the Church. He influenced the Franciscan Order deeply and inspired the friars who worked there. Thus, the mission carries a rich spiritual legacy tied to his name.

The state recognizes Mission San Buenaventura as a California Historical Landmark. Local officials also honor it as a significant landmark in downtown Ventura. Over time, the mission gained wide appreciation for both its history and faith.

On June 9, 2020, Pope Francis elevated the church to a minor basilica. Then, on July 15, Archbishop José Gómez officially announced this honor to the public. Consequently, the mission updated its name to reflect the new status.

Today, the Mission Basilica of San Buenaventura actively welcomes worshippers, tourists, and historians. It offers services, tours, and events that celebrate its rich past and vibrant present.

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