As the Mission San José embarks on a divine renovation and renewal, transforming the Mission Museum into a Pilgrim Center, Healing Chapel, and Museum, we are reminded of our sacred mission to share the good news of the Lord with all people.  This transformation symbolizes the Church’s identity as a pilgrim church, following in the footsteps of the Lord to heaven, just as Abraham was called to leave his home and follow God’s promise (Genesis 12:1-3).

Upon entering the new Pilgrim Center, formerly the gift shop, visitors will be greeted with Christian Hospitality inspired by the spirit of St. Francis, whose love for all mirrors the love of Christ (John 13:34-35). This marks the beginning of a sacred and holy journey, guiding pilgrims and visitors through the Museum’s first room, where the divine story of God’s journey with humanity unfolds. The room showcases the significant stories of men and women of faith, highlighting their roles in our sacred journey back to God and Heaven. The journey begins with creation, where God made humanity in His likeness and image (Genesis 1:27), and continues through the fall (Genesis 3). 

The room features key figures such as: 

– Noah, who trusted God and built an ark, saving his family and two of every kind of animal (Genesis 6-9) 
– Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, trusting in God’s promise (Genesis 22) 
– Joseph, who forgave his brothers and trusted in God’s sovereignty (Genesis 37, 45)
– Moses, who encountered God in the Burning Bush and led the Israelites out of slavery (Exodus 3-4, 12)
– David, who trusted God and defeated Goliath 
(1 Samuel 17)
– The Holy Family – Joseph, Mary, and Jesus – who embodied God’s love and grace (Matthew 1-2, Luke 2) 

This sacred journey reminds us that we are invited to continue walking with the Lord, who promises to be with us until the end of times (Matthew 28:20). As we embark on this divine renovation and renewal, we are called to share the good news of the Lord with all people, inspiring a deeper connection with our faith and our mission. The transformed Pilgrim Center, Healing Chapel, and Museum will serve as a beacon of hope and guidance, welcoming pilgrims and visitors to embark on this sacred journey, deepening their understanding of our shared mission and the love of Christ. May we “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1) and may our hearts be filled with joy, peace, and love.