Testimony: Father Marco Vinicio. He is originally from Alajuela but has lived and worked here for 3 years. He was assigned to serve Atenas by the bishop of the province. He is here to educate the people of Atenas about the teachings of Jesus Christ. Almost every day he visits people with sickness at their homes and attends funeral services which are nearly every day.
Iglesia Catolica San Rafael Arcangel Atenas is accessible for people with handicaps.
Ways to get to the place: Walking, car, bus, others.
It is not a pet friendly zone.
Opening hours: The church doors are open to the public every day from 7:00am to 7:00pm. The adjacent office is open 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday through Friday. Saturday 8:30am - 12:00pm. Closed Sunday.
Most of the people in Atenas are catholic. The building was built in 1836 but the Father tells me that it only began as a church, 6 years later, in 1842. The name San Rafael comes from the Patron Saint San Rafael who is the Patron Saint of the Parish. He is the Patron Saint of pilgrims. In the past, Atenas was a stop in the valley where travelers and goods being transported would pass through on there was to and from the Ocean and San Jose.
The church offers Masses, Confessions, Funerals, and Spiritual Direction. They have many groups for prayer and for the study of the holy scriptures. They have an activity named Pastoral Social which helps people in poverty.
My experience visiting the church was quite pleasant. It is a gorgeous property and stunning church set in the center of Atenas. My time with Father Marco was very special. While not being a local or even Catholic, I can still feel the sense of pride that comes from calling this church your own. A definite and easy stop if you find yourself in Atenas.
My name is David Samuels. I am from Syracuse, New York. I have lived in Atenas for 8 months. I am part of a gap-year program called The Bridge.
I have a strong passion for Geography and learning!
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