California is one of my favorite places to visit. There are so many diverse things to see and do. From the unspoiled rocky coastline, to the Napa Vineyards, to the majestic Redwoods, California is stunning! Our family has truly enjoyed discovering California and it's many charming little towns such as Carmel and Monterey. I would definitely recommend packing a picnic basket and blanket and enjoying an afternoon anywhere along 17-Mile Drive from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach. Judging from it's beauty, I think God must have lingered awhile along this coastline. And if you are spending the weekend in this area, be sure to stop at the Carmel Mission.
The Carmel Mission makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. This Spanish mission church, which has been built and rebuilt a few times over, is as beautiful inside as out. Surrounded by lovely gardens and courtyards it is a wonderful place to celebrate mass and then enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Carmel Mission was founded by Father Junipero Serra in the late 1700's. If this name sounds familiar it is because Pope Francis just canonized Father Serra during his recent visit to America on September 23, 2015. St. Junipero Serra's body is entombed here at the Carmel Mission.
I have always admired missionaries. Leaving the comforts of their own home, language, and culture behind in order to bring the gospel to another corner of the world is incredible. And there is so much work still to do! Sometimes we tend to think with all the modern ways to communicate, surely everyone has heard of Jesus by now. Heard about Him....maybe....but does everyone recognize His presence? I think we could all help continue the missionary work begun here, by bringing Christ to the people around us each day. Perhaps we each live in the city we do, because our mission may be to enlighten those who live near us.
One of the things I love about being on vacation is seeing the world and your own life from a different point of view.
The Carmel Mission is a wonderful place to visit. I definitely found this to be a great spot to dwell with the Spirit.
-Susan
