A few years ago I found myself in Santa Fe during the start of the Holiday season. Twinkling lights and good cheer mixed in with the art of the Southwest. I didn’t have the time then to explore and savor the season like I would have wanted, but upon my recent return, I made the most of this special place.
I start with the Loretto Chapel, completed in 1878, with a truly miraculous staircase to be found within it’s sacred walls.
Located at the end of the Old Santa Fe trail, wind chimes slowly turn in the December morning air as I approach the historic church. I pay the three dollar donation fee and enter. The staircase immediately calls to me.
Many believe that it was either built or inspired by St. Joseph the Carpenter between 1877 and 1881 (but no one knows for certain), the staircase has two 360 degree turns and no visible means of support. It’s smooth wood and craftsmanship are divine, for lack of a better word.
The small chapel also has several different depictions of Christ during his time on the cross, each with a simple message in scripted on the marble. I take the time to read and ponder each one.
I spend perhaps half an hour here, first thing on a Saturday morning, and my Personal Jesus time sets the tone for a perfect day exploring the beauty of Santa Fe during the Holiday season.
