mooseeyes Loc: Sonora, California

The Mission San Juan Bautista, named for John the Baptist, whose mother was told of his coming by the angel Gabriel, who also foretold the purpose of the unborn child was to prepare the way for the Son of God. Elizabeth sent word to her sister Mary of the angel Gabriel’s words. It was some years later that three of John’s cousins presented themselves for baptism at the river Jordan. These cousins were brothers, and the sons of Mary.

John was atremble with emotion as he made ready to baptize Jesus of Nazareth in the Jordan at noon on Monday, January 14, A.D. 26. Thus did John baptize Jesus and his two brothers James and Jude.

St. John the Baptist's mission & purpose.

St3v3M Loc: 35,000 feet

Might make a nice postcard.

mooseeyes Loc: Sonora, California

Actually, all of my California Mission images are available as greeting cards, as well as large prints, on my site with Fine Art America.

The one thing of note with this image, for those who have never been to this mission, the reflecting pond does not exist. I created it, including the reflections of the bell tower, tree, etc. What is actually there is an oil stained asphalt parking area. Now everyone should be on the same page with this mission and the reflection reference.

Another interesting bit of information about this mission concerns the classic movie "Vertigo", starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. The bell tower was filmed at this mission; however, that old bell tower no longer exists, as an earthquake took it out shortly after the film was made. They decided not to replace that bell tower as it was not original to the mission when first built.

carlysue Loc: Columbus

Interesting history and the art work is brilliant. So well done and the reflecting pond is a perfect addition. They should consider doing that. More beautiful than asphalt and a good spot for prayer and meditation.