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UnknownLas Zayas, Son. 85773About
Summary
A Jesuit mission established in the 18th century, serving the Tarahumara (Rarámuri) community near Creel, Chihuahua, Mexico. Known for its whitewashed interior, indigenous cultural traditions, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Details
Founded by the Jesuits in the late 18th century, this mission church became a refuge during the Mexican Revolution and remains a spiritual and cultural hub for the Tarahumara people. Services incorporate indigenous dances and processions, particularly during Semana Santa (Easter). The church features a simple, whitewashed interior with a painting of San José del Buen Consejo. Visitors can explore the surrounding 20,000-hectare ejido, purchase local handicrafts, and use public restrooms. A nearby shelter provides basic education for Tarahumara children.
From Faith Near Me
San Ignacio Mission, a Jesuit-founded church in Las Zayas, serves as a spiritual and cultural center for the Tarahumara (Rarámuri) community. First-time visitors would notice the welcoming atmosphere, whitewashed interior, and integration of indigenous traditions into worship, particularly during Semana Santa. The surrounding ejido offers a glimpse into the community's connection to the land.
Pros
- The mission blends Catholic worship with Tarahumara cultural traditions, including indigenous dances during Semana Santa.
- A shelter for Tarahumara children provides basic education nearby.
- Public restrooms and handicraft sales are available for visitors.
- The whitewashed interior and simple design create a serene, contemplative space.
- Friendly, welcoming interactions with community members are reported by visitors.
Cons
- Limited website presence makes detailed information about services or events less accessible.
- The admission fee to access the reserve may be unexpected for some visitors.
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- David Stanley5 months ago
In the 18th century the Misión de San Ignacio de Arareco was established by the Jesuits near Creel, Chihuahua, Mexico. It ministers to a Tarahumara or Rarámuri community dispersed in the surrounding forests. The church has an ascetic whitewashed interior with benches along the walls. A painting of San José del Buen Consejo hangs there. Semana Santa (Easter) is passionately celebrated in this area with indigenous dances and processions.
- Myles McSwineya year ago
Simplicity and beauty at first impression. On a deeper read Jesuits forcing their ways. The story of the Americas
- ADAM ORRISS4 years ago
A very nice church in a rural village near Creel. We cycled there & at the end my fekkin derailleur snapped off! We were in trouble but a friendly guide didn’t hesitate to give us a lift back to Creel!
- Cindy Fowler9 years ago
SAN IGNACIO MISSION In the ejido San Ignacio de Arareko is a Jesuit mission from the eighteenth century. It is a typical Tarahumara community with 20 thousand hectares of beautiful landscape around the mission that meets the community.
- Roger Banmana year ago
Beautiful!
- Omar Luquin9 years ago
Good please to find yourself
- Jeannot Lupien7 months ago
There is an admission fee to access the reserve. So we contributed to a good cause. The beautiful, picturesque chapel was closed.
- Beto4 months ago
Excellent for learning a little more about the traditions and customs of the place
- Jose López3 years ago
This is an interesting church with very unique traditions. The people who serve you are very kind and friendly. It's important to respect their beliefs and traditions and listen carefully to their rituals. Next to the church is an important shelter for Tarahumara children where they receive basic education.
- Brenda Martineza year ago
The Catholic Church of San Ignacio de Ararenko, dedicated to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, was built by the Jesuits in the late 18th century as part of an effort to evangelize the Tarahumara region. It was used as a refuge during the Mexican Revolution. You can buy handicrafts there, and there are also public restrooms for men and women. The people there are very friendly.
Services and facilities
Services
- Child Education Programs
- Handicraft Sales
- Cultural Preservation Initiatives
Facilities
- Public Restrooms
- Sanctuary With Whitewashed Interior
- Surrounding Ejido (Communal Land)
Events and programs
Semana Santa Celebrations
Annually
Indigenous dances and processions during Easter

