Founded on June 13, 1798 by Padre Fermín Lasuén, this is the eighteenth of the Spanish missions established in California and is a National Historic Landmark. The Mission functions today as the home of Franciscan Friars from the Province of Saint Barbara, a museum, cemetery and retreat center. It also remains a place where the Luiseño Indians gather. Their annual powwow and monthly tribal council meetings are held on the grounds. Tours are provided by volunteers to visitors and school trip kids. Meeting and retreat facilities are available. A cemetery founded in 1798 is adjacent to the mission and is still accepting burials.