In 1965, St. Augustine, Florida, celebrated the 500th birthday of its founding. As part of that celebration, the Mission de Nombre de Dios, site of the first Mass said in what is now the continental United States, erected a giant 200-foot cross and built a new chapel, the Prince of Peace Memorial. My Catholic high school choir sang at its dedication, and I took the opportunity to take photos.

Sister St. John

This nun, who taught first graders at the Catholic elementary school, was a students' favorite. In this photo we are lining up to travel to the Mission de Nombre de Dios

Sister St. George led the choir.

The Mission de Nombre de Dios Grounds

Designed to be a peaceful and contemplative place, the Mission grounds allow for nature walks amid the salt smell from the Matanzas River.

The giant, 200-foot cross was erected on the spot the first Mass on the continental United States was said.

Mary Joan, Gramma, and Mom at the Mission

Mary Joan, Mom and Gramma at the Mission

The Great Cross, illuminated by searchlights, casts multiple shadows on any clouds that might be overhead.