About Saint Bartholomew Mission (San Antonio de Pala Parish) · Rincon, California
Mission San Antonio de Pala, located on the Pala Indian Reservation in northern San Diego County, California, is a historic Catholic mission founded in 1816 as an asistencia to Mission San Luis Rey de Francia. It remains the only historic mission still serving a Native American tribe — the Pala Band of Mission Indians — and is deeply integrated into the community’s spiritual and cultural life. The mission offers regular Mass, sacraments, and ministries, with active participation from tribal members in liturgical and pastoral life. It is a living testament to the enduring presence of Catholicism among California’s Indigenous peoples.
- Established
- 1816
- Patron
- Saint Bartholomew
- Diocese
- Diocese of San Diego
Why belong here
Join a community where Catholic faith and Native American heritage intertwine through regular Mass, sacraments, and active tribal participation in liturgy. The parish offers spiritual support, education, and fellowship rooted in the history of the Pala Mission and the resilience of the Cupeño people. Ministries include religious education, prayer groups, and outreach, all welcoming to all who seek a deeper connection to God and community.
About The San Antonio de Pala Asistencia
Founded on June 13, 1816 as an asistencia to Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, the Pala Mission was part of the Spanish missions system in Alta California. Today, it is located on the Pala Indian Reservation in northern San Diego County and is the only historic mission still serving a Native American tribe.
History of Local Indian Reservations & the Pala Mission
The Pala Mission’s history is deeply tied to the forced relocation of the Cupeño people, who were moved to the reservation between 1851 and 1903. The mission chapel became a spiritual anchor for the tribe, as Catholicism became central to their cultural survival after federal suppression of traditional practices.
Sacraments & Religious Education
The parish offers Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, and Marriage. Religious Education classes for children are scheduled for the 2026-2027 academic year, with registration opening June 15, 2026.