Mission San José

Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph

Fremont, CA

Welcome to Mission San Jose

Mission San Jose was founded on June 11, 1797 by Father Fermin Francisco de Lasuen on a site which was part of a natural highway by way of the Livermore Valley to the San Joaquin Valley. It is the fourteenth of the 21 Spanish Missions in Alta California. Although Mission San Jose was founded over 225 years ago, we cannot forget that our story stretches back further into time. Before this was Mission San Jose, it was the Ohlone Village of Oroysom

The founding of Mission San Jose marks the beginning of a shared story. We acknowledge and remember all of those who have been part of that story, beginning with the Ohlone people who lived, loved, labored, and died on this most sacred land.

The Ohlones are still present today. Their culture, language, and spirit live on in their descendants. Also present today are many new cultures and languages, each contributing to the diverse community in which we live. 

Students interested in learning more about the history of Mission San Jose, especially for the 4th Grade Mission Project, can order a free historical information packet. Mission San Jose is frequently visited by classrooms and tour groups. The grounds are open free of charge 7 days a week for public viewing.

DONATE

Did you know? Mission San Jose receives no sustaining support from any governmental agency. Donations are used exclusively for the restoration, operation and preservation of the Mission. Learn more about our current restoration projects HERE.

VISIT A GRAVE

You may visit a loved one interred in our cemetery during operating hours. Enter via the Museum’s Pilgrim Center.

OUR AFFILIATION

Mission San José is part of St. Joseph Parish/ Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Oakland. Additionally our campus includes St. Joseph Catholic School.

The Mission Church is still an active Catholic church. You’re invited to celebrate daily Mass, or other sacraments such as Baptism or Matrimony.

Tours

Tours of the Mission

We are currently offering docent-led tours. It’s such a delight to walk in the footsteps of our founder, Fr. Fermin Francisco de Lasuen, see the structures built by Christian Native Californians, or take in the artwork and artifacts from over 200 years ago. Come see our living faith planted by the Franciscan Missionaries and still thriving today in modern day Fremont.

Projects

4th Grade Mission Project

Students interested in learning more about the history of Mission San Jose, especially for the 4th Grade Mission Project, can order a free historical information packet. Mission San Jose is frequently visited by classrooms and tour groups. The grounds are open free of charge 7 days a week for public viewing.

News

Mission News

Church icon Be a part of an extraordinary project that will transform the Mission Museum into a vibrant oasis of hope, healing, and spiritual... Read more

Church icon The processional silver crucifix and candlestick holders dating back to the original 1809 Adobe Church have been a beautiful sight to... Read more

Events

Events at the Mission

Church icon Join us for nine evenings starting on December 15th. Visit missionsanjose.org/las-posadas for program details. We meet on the porch of the... Read more
Date icon  December 23, 2024

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