Before Spanish rule, the land now known as New Mexico was inhabited by many indigenous tribes and pueblos with their own religious beliefs. When conquistadors arrived to search for the Seven Cities of Gold, they created settlements in the pueblos they conquered and forced Catholicism on the people they enslaved. While several of these original missions were destroyed during the Revolt of 1680, the surviving churches are cherished by the communities they now serve. Author Donna Blake Birchell guides you through the unique histories of more than twenty mission churches, their struggles and triumphs over the centuries and the preservation challenges they now face.

Author Donna Blake Birchell is a native New Mexican who was introduced to the legends and lore of the area as a child by her father. She has always found the history of her home state fascinating, and the mission churches holds a spiritual draw for her as she was raised Catholic. This awe is a feeling she loves to share with her readers.