Just before Glendale Blvd. goes under the 2 Freeway, you pass this unassuming but gorgeous church, Saint Teresa of Avila.
I think this little church, built in 1929, as well as houses like the Gaudi-inspired house I wrote about yesterday, show that Silver Lake used look like a magical little village with fantastic little cottages, churches and stores. It's no wonder that Walt Disney set up his first studio not far from here on Hyperion, the city must have looked like something out of a fairytale
For those non-Catholics, such as myself, St. Teresa of Avila was a Spanish nun who lived between 1515 and 1582, just as America was being explored by Europeans and the Lutheran reformation was storming across Europe. She is remembered for her writings and teachings on prayer and for founding the Discalced Carmelites, a religious order focused on a simple life devoted to prayer.
I like this picture of St. Teresa painted by François Gérard in 1827. She has a look of desire in her eyes.
Next to the church was this garden, with a sculpture of Juan Diego showing his cloak with the image of the Virgin on it to the Spanish bishop, Fray Juan de Zumárraga.
At some point the sculpture must have fallen forward and broken the hands.
I thought this colorful mosaic inside the cloak was an interesting touch.
The parish has a school associated with it that is located across the street. The school, opened in 1949, is of course a Catholic school and serves grades K-8.
The church is absolutely gorgeous inside. I couldn't take great photos of it, but here are some details as well as a video that I think gives you some idea.
The church nave is open everyday, and you are free to visit it yourself if you wish.
Not even the Catholic church was immune from swine flu. This photo was taken on 5/2/09.
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