In recognition of the 800th Anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, The Most Reverend Michael C. Barber, S.J., Bishop of Oakland, has designated Mission San José, Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph, as an official pilgrimage site for this sacred observance.

Founded in 1797 by Franciscan missionaries, Mission San José stands as a living witness to the Franciscan presence and the enduring Catholic faith in our region. For more than two centuries this historic Mission has been a place of worship, prayer, and encounter with God.

During this commemorative Jubilee period, the faithful who make pilgrimage to Mission San José may receive a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions, which may also be offered for the souls in Purgatory.

Pilgrims and visitors are invited to come to Mission San José to pray, reflect, and honor the life and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, asking the Saint of Peace to intercede for the Church and for our world.

Saint Francis, our brother, you,
who eight hundred years ago,
went to meet Sister Death as a man at peace.
Intercede for us with the Lord.
In the Crucifix of San Damiano,
you recognized true peace.
Teach us to see in Him
the source of all reconciliation
that breaks down every wall.
You, who, unarmed, crossed the lines
of war and misunderstanding.
Give us the courage to
build bridges where the world erects borders.
In this time plagued by conflict and division,
intercede so that we may become peacemakers:
unarmed and disarming witness
of the peace that comes from Christ.
Amen.