Santa Fe, New Mexico—whose name means “Holy Faith”—has long been a spiritual crossroads. Its faith communities reflect a rich blend of Native American traditions, Spanish Catholic heritage, and an increasingly diverse collection of global faiths.
Historical Foundations
Native American Spirituality
Indigenous Pueblo peoples have practiced earth-based spiritual traditions in the region for over 1,000 years. Their ceremonial life continues today in pueblos surrounding Santa Fe, with kivas, dances, and seasonal rituals deeply tied to the land.
Catholicism
Introduced by Spanish missionaries in the late 16th century, Catholicism became central to Santa Fe’s identity.
- San Miguel Mission (est. ~1610) is considered the oldest church in the United States.
- Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (begun 1869) remains the seat of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe.
Protestant Christianity
Arriving with Anglo settlers in the mid-1800s, Protestant denominations established long-standing congregations:
- First Presbyterian Church (est. 1867)
- St. John’s United Methodist Church (est. early 20th century)
- Episcopal Church of the Holy Faith (est. 1863)
Judaism
Jewish merchants arrived in the mid-1800s, though the first synagogue wasn’t built until the 20th century.
- Temple Beth Shalom (est. 1960s) serves the Reform Jewish community today.
Buddhism
Several Buddhist centers now call Santa Fe home, offering Zen practice, Tibetan retreats, and meditation workshops.
- Upaya Zen Center (est. 1990)
- Kagyu Shenpen Kunchab Tibetan Buddhist Center (est. 1980s)
Islam
A small but vibrant Muslim community gathers for prayer and education both in town and at nearby centers.
- Dar al Islam in Abiquiú (est. 1980s) serves as a regional hub for Islamic studies and interfaith dialogue.
Other Faiths
Unitarian Universalists, Baha’is, Hindus, Sikhs, and numerous interfaith and contemplative groups also enrich Santa Fe’s spiritual landscape.
