Item 5 - Grand Opening of Santa Inés Old Mission

2 pp; typescript

A typescript copy of a document titled ‘The Irish Capuchins in America: Grand Opening of Santa Ynez Old Mission’ reproducing a November 1924 article from the ‘Watts Review’ documenting the Capuchin Order’s official takeover of the California mission. It details how, following a request from Bishop Cantwell and approval from Rome, the Capuchin Fathers arrived at the old mission on Thursday, 20 November 1924, marking the return of brown-robed friars to the site after a 74-year absence. The text lists the newly appointed community members – Father Albert Bibby (Rector), Father Reginald O’Hanlon (Assistant), and Brother Columcille Cregan – who were accompanied by the Superior of the Irish Capuchins in America, Fr. Joseph Fenelon. It describes an installation ceremony on Sunday, 23 November, featuring a Solemn High Mass sung by Father Joseph, an inaugural sermon tracing the mission’s history from its 1804 founding to the 1850 departure of the Franciscans, and musical accompaniment directed by Mrs. H. Labarare. It also highlights the order’s expanding educational ventures, specifically mentioning the opening of a college under the patronage of St. Anthony in Mendocino, California, which was endorsed by Archbishop Edward J. Hanna of San Francisco to train efficient workers for church service.