During the next 2 years Dominic traveled over 3,000 miles on foot, visiting and encouraging his men in Toulouse, Paris, Milan, Rome and in Spain. In 1220 the first meeting or general chapter of the friars took
Not far from the entrance of Bryce Canyon National Park is an A-Frame church that is open for 12:10pm Sunday Mass from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Saint Dominic Catholic Church serves the locals and many travelers of the area. Since it is seasonal, they are served by Christ the King Catholic Church in Cedar City. The building is clearly visible on the west side of Highway 63 when approaching Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park and can be accessed from the parking lot of the Subway located on the corner of Highway 12 and Highway 63. For questions or more information, call Christ the King at 435-586-8298.
Father Valine used to celebrate Sunday mass at Pink Cliff’s Village at the entrance of Bryce Canyon. Then the family of Gerome Bartlett owner of Pink Cliff’s Motel, donated property and Father Valine built Saint Dominic’s Mission Church. Bishop Federal celebrated the Dedication Mass at Saint Dominic on August 27, 1967. Today, the same building is erect and there is ample parking and entry is still through the glass door. The foyer or vestibule has confessionals on the left side and the right side has alcove with a statue of their Patron Saint Dominic, some silk arrangements and a frame photo of the plaque of Father Joseph Valine. Stairs are to the left and lead to a small choir loft with folding chairs to accommodate overflow. There is a partition screen that can divide the vestibule from the nave of the church. Continuing forward, a Holy Water Font is at the entrance of the church and there is a plaque in the vestibule that describes the special “Saint Dominic’s Pink Cliff Font”. Further forward and to the right of the font is an organ and a table holding the Missalettes is directly across. The vintage wooden pews are divided in two sections with one main aisle and no side aisle because of the slated roof line. Stations of the Cross are along the side and back walls. The royal blue carpeting carries the light from the entrance throughout the church. The large exposed interior beams and wood lined walls and ceiling bring warmth to the design. There are two amazing chandeliers that are made from irrigation wheels by Father Valine that light the area.
Tall white statues of Joseph and Mary are on each side of the altar area. A wooden altar table has the inscription letters of “JHS” in front and it is draped with a white linen. The ambo is to the left of the altar table and chairs for the presiders are on the opposite side. Such a beautiful tabernacle is directly behind the altar table and framed with three candles. Just above the tabernacle is a lovely wood-tone crucifix. The bathrooms are to the left of the altar area and can be accessed outside as well. The sacristy is on the opposite area.
Summer is a time of vacations and visitors, when people travel to see relatives and friends. Hospitality is a cornerstone of rural life, a trademark of these summer days. This hospitality can become a cornerstone of rural spirituality as well. O God, you have made us your guests in this world, the earth you created for all. We remember how you sent your angels to Abraham and Sarah to be received as guests. By their hospitality, Abraham and Sarah received a message of hope and life. Amen. Thank you to Jim and Judy for their wonderful hospitality as they were our Abraham and Sarah.