On the way back from dropping Hilary at UCSB last Sunday, I stopped at Mission San Miguel. I have only visited a handful of the 21 California missions, but this one is particularly lovely. It is still a parish church with an active congregation. They were inside at Mass while I wandered the grounds. The muted tones of adobe, wood and tile seem suited for presentation in sepia.

A docent told me that the Mission is being preserved in its current state, rather than being restored. They no longer allow candles in the church because the smoke damages the murals. Perhaps that is why this incense burner was brought outside as the Mass continued.

This gentleman waited for a signal from inside the church before he rang the bell.

A peaceful and beautiful place.

The cacti were blooming. Cactus flowers are best rendered in color, don’t you think?

All in all, a lovely place to break up the long journey home.