Preserving a Sacred Legacy: Community Rallies to Support Historic Soboba Mission Church

For more than a century, the Soboba Mission Church has stood as a symbol of faith, resilience and community on the Soboba Indian Reservation. Recently, supporters gathered at Golden Era Golf Course for a special golfing fundraiser dedicated to preserving that legacy and ensuring the historic church remains a vibrant place of worship for generations to come.

Established in 1888, just five years after the Soboba Reservation was established in 1883, the mission was founded by the Catholic Diocese to provide the Catholic faith to members of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians. Throughout its history, the church has remained a cornerstone of the reservation, weathering natural disasters, changing times and the growth of the surrounding communities while remaining steadfast in its mission.

The church suffered extensive damage during the devastating 1899 earthquake but was lovingly rebuilt in 1910 through the determination and hard work of the Soboba people themselves. Constructed with impressive 15-inch-thick walls, those same buildings continue to stand today—a lasting testament to the faith, craftsmanship and perseverance of those who rebuilt them more than a century ago.

Among those attending the fundraiser was Marion Chacon, a respected Tribal Elder, secretary of the Soboba Mission Council and a lifelong member of the church. Celebrating her 90th birthday this year, few people embody the church's history more personally than Chacon.

Born and raised on the Soboba Reservation, she was married in the church and later watched her children receive the Sacrament of Baptism there. Her family's connection to the mission spans generations.

"My mom and my aunt were caretakers for the church," Chacon recalled. "I just love this church."

She explained that the fundraiser comes at an important time as the historic buildings require continued maintenance, including new carpeting, repairs and ongoing preservation work.

Today, the congregation reflects both heritage and growth, bringing together Soboba tribal members alongside parishioners from throughout the San Jacinto Valley and neighboring communities who gather together in worship.

Also attending the fundraiser was Sister Yolanda Magaña, MSM, of the Missionary Sisters of Mary.

The church campus encompasses more than the sanctuary itself. Its historic grounds include the church, rectory, residence for the Missionary Sisters, accommodations for visiting priests and St. Jude Mission School, all serving together as the spiritual and educational heart of the mission.

St. Jude Mission School currently serves students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade and welcomes families from both the reservation and surrounding communities. While providing a Catholic faith-based education, the school also plays an important role in preserving Native American heritage by teaching both the Cahuilla and Luiseño languages, helping ensure these important cultural traditions continue to thrive for future generations.

The parish is now led by Reverend Robert Alex Sander Anthony, MSC (Missionaries of the Sacred Heart), who recently succeeded the retiring Father Earl Henley as pastor and chaplain.

Reflecting on his years of ministry among the reservation communities, Father Henley said,

"It's a community ministry and it is a different world. The people of the reservation supported me while I was there and this is so much appreciated."

Father Robert now continues that ministry, serving not only the Soboba Mission Church but also the Torres Martinez, Santa Rosa, Cahuilla, Morongo and Pechanga reservations, continuing the Catholic Church's outreach to Native American communities throughout the region.

The successful fundraiser was organized by Felix and Sally Ortiz, who hope to make the event an annual tradition following the tremendous community support and enthusiastic attendance.

Guests enjoyed a meal prepared by Flora Powelson, a resident of Desert Hot Springs Country Club, whose volunteer ministry includes preparing and delivering meals to homebound members of her Catholic community.

While the evening successfully raised funds for much-needed maintenance and restoration projects, it also served as a reminder that the Soboba Mission Church is far more than a historic building. It is a living testament to faith, family and cultural heritage—a place where generations have worshipped, celebrated milestones and found community.

As it approaches 140 years of ministry, the Soboba Mission Church continues to welcome both tribal families and the broader community, standing as a bridge between history and the future. Through the generosity of supporters and the dedication of those committed to its preservation, this treasured landmark will continue to inspire and serve generations yet to come.

As communities continue to grow and change, preserving places like the Soboba Mission Church ensures that future generations will understand not only where they came from, but also the enduring faith, resilience and traditions that continue to shape the San Jacinto Valley today.