Campus Landmarks - Mission

的源头

的源头 at Incarnate Word preserves, 恢复, and celebrates the rich natural, 文化, 历史, 精神上的, and educational values of the headwaters of the San Antonio River, especially within the 53-acre Headwaters Sanctuary.

的源头 Sanctuary at Incarnate Word is widely revered as a beautiful, 安静的, historic sanctuary at the headwaters of the San Antonio River with the 蓝洞 spring as its centerpiece. 蓝洞While privately owned and managed, it is free and open to the public. Walking trails invite exploration of the sanctuary and connect it to adjacent parks and natural areas. 

的 river is connected from its historic “source” at the 蓝洞 to the southernmost Mission Espada. Interpretive signs and educational programs reflect on the area’s ecology, 水文, history and pre-history. Appropriate scientific inquiry benefits nearby universities, schools, and visitors. 的 sanctuary is a safe haven for native plants, animals and city-weary souls. 

A growing community of volunteers contribute countless hours to restoring as much of its native biodiversity as possible. 的y discover that in working to heal the land, we heal something deep within ourselves. Exploring our 精神上的 connection to Earth fosters a greater appreciation for nature and our moral obligation to Earth care. Headwaters是一个 的地方 与一个 任务. 

Our main goals are to:

  • Establish a sanctuary for all Creation
  • Restore health to its land and water
  • Offer the gifts of education and 精神上的 reflection
  • Share the stories of this 的地方 and it people
  • Connect the 蓝洞 and Sanctuary to the community by way of the "Spirit Reach" of the San Antonio River.

For more information on the Headwaters at Incarnate Word, please visit their 网站. 

St. 布里吉特的橡树

 St. 布里吉特的橡树 can be found along St. Brigid's Path behind the Village of Avoca Apartments. 

It is a live oak tree that is approximately 600 years old. It is dedicated to St. Brigid of Kildare (451-525 AD) by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, and the University of the Incarnate Word.

的洞穴

的洞穴的 卢尔德石窟 honors our Lady of Lourdes, and the original grotto in Lourdes, France which is well known for its healing powers.

In pleasant weather, which is frequent during the fall and spring semesters, the Grotto's intimate auditorium-style seating often serves as an outdoor classroom.