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Just after the turn of the century, Father St. John O'Sullivan
became pastor of the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Both seemed
fated to perish from this earth: Father O'Sullivan from tuberculosis,
the Mission from the ravages of time. It was the priest's inspiration
to restore the Mission to its previous splendor and create throughout
it magnificent gardens to rival those of the Alhambra in Spain."I
have yet to see a painting or photograph of this section of the
main courtyard that does not feature this wonderful pair of bougainvillea
vines," says June Carey of Bougainvillea. "It's a terrific
image to think of, Father O'Sullivan possibly planting, but certainly
nurturing, these beautiful plants to become one of the Mission's
most noted centerpieces. Such a passion for the gifts of the
land seems to have a power that extends far beyond simple beauty.
Father O'Sullivan survived to oversee the Mission's restoration
for twenty-three years." |