About San Francisco de Assisi Mission (National Historic Church) · San Francisco, Colorado
Sangre de Cristo Parish, located in San Luis, Colorado, is a historic Catholic community rooted in the faith of early Spanish settlers and their descendants in Costilla County. Established in 1881 with Father J.V. Montaño as its first pastor, the parish has preserved its mission churches and spiritual heritage through generations. The parish center in San Luis, completed in 1894 by Father Samuel Garcia, serves as the spiritual heart of the community, with additional mission churches scattered across the region. The parish continues to serve through worship, education, and outreach, welcoming all to participate in its vibrant faith life.
- Established
- 1881
- Patron
- Sangre de Cristo
- Rector
- Father Emmanuel Ayodeji Alao
Why belong here
Join a community that values worship, holistic spiritual formation, and service rooted in love and faith. Through its mission churches, educational programs, and outreach, the parish invites all to grow in holiness and participate in the life of the Church. The parish’s history and architecture reflect generations of faith, offering a welcoming space for spiritual renewal and connection.
History
The Sangre De Cristo Parish is a testament to the enduring faith of the Pobladores and their descendants, as well as the dedication of generations of priests and nuns who ministered to Costilla County. Founded in 1881 and officially named in 1889, the parish was established with Father J.V. Montaño as its first pastor. Father Samuel Garcia completed the church in San Luis in 1894 and also built or renovated mission churches at Fort Garland, San Pablo, and Los Fuertes, while establishing a school and parish compound. The parish’s religious spaces reflect the spiritual values and aspirations of families who have lived in the region for generations.
Mission Churches
Beginning with Spanish settlers in the early 1800s, several villages were established in what is today south central Colorado. The cultural epicenter of these villages were their churches. Today, many aspects of life originally brought to the region by these settlers survive, including their churches. During the summer, Saturday Mass is held at one of the mission churches each week. Call the office at 719-992-0122 for the Mission Mass schedule.
- Immaculate Conception
- Saints Peter & Paul
- San Francisco
- Holy Family
- Saint James the Less
- Sacred Heart
- San Acacio
- The Shrine (Chapel of All Saints)
Staff
The commitment from our staff each and every day keeps our parish strong and vibrant. Scroll down to read about the Sangre de Cristo staff. Rebbeca Romero, Treasurer, has already made measurable impacts since joining the staff.
- Rebbeca Romero — Treasurer
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Father J.V. Montaño1881
First pastor assigned.
- Father Samuel Garcia1894
Completed construction of the San Luis church and built/renovated mission churches.