The Miracle of the Margil Vine: A Christmas Tale from the San Antonio Missions

Among the many tales from the San Antonio Missions, the legend of the Margil Vine stands out, especially during the Christmas season. This story begins with Padre Antonio Margil de Jesús, a Franciscan friar whose missionary work was instrumental in establishing missions across Texas including Mission San Jose in 1720.  Known for his humility and spirituality, he was revered by the Indigenous people and his fellow missionaries. Padre Margil’s legacy continues to inspire through the enchanting tale of the Margil Vine.

One Christmas Eve at Mission San Antonio de Valero, Padre Margil encountered Shavano, a young Indigenous boy in tears because everyone else had gifts to present to the Infant Jesus who would be placed in the manger of the Nativity Scene during the Christmas procession.  Padre Margil comforted him, suggesting that expressing his love for Christ was Shavano’s most meaningful gift. Shavano felt better but still wanted to give the Infant a present to express his love. He found and planted a tiny vine in a small pot and placed it by the manger thinking it was small but would suffice. 

The next day members of the procession were stunned when they arrived at the Nativity; an exuberant vine of rich green leaves and scarlet berries had entwined itself around and over the manger richly decorating the Nativity Scene.  Shavano’s humble gift had been accepted and grown into the most beautiful gift of all. The Indigenous community named the plant Padre Margil’s vine which can still be found in abundance at the missions.

Today, the Margil Vine is a living link to the past, thriving around the mission churches and serving as a vibrant reminder of the missions’ enduring legacy.  Scientifically known as Cocculus carolinus, the Margil Vine was traditionally used by some Native American tribes medicinally to treat blood ailments. In late summer and fall, the vine’s long clusters of brilliant red fruits dangle from fences and shrubs decorating the landscape, helped along by birds who are fond of the fruit and inadvertently plant most of the seeds.

This holiday season, experience the Missions’ rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Visitors can witness traditional posadas, matachines processions, and elaborate Nativity scenes that bring the community together in celebration of the Christmas message. These festivities underscore the missions’ role as centers of faith and culture much like in Padre Margil’s time. To find out more about the beautiful Mission traditions, visit the Margil Center, open Monday – Saturday 9 AM – 5 PM. The Margil Center, located directly behind Mission Concepción, is a Mission visitors center where you can learn all about the storied San Antonio Missions. Enjoy the beauty of the Missions through an Advent pilgrimage supported by El Camino de San Antonio, (www.caminosanantonio.org)  

Most of all take a moment to ponder the greatest gift of the season – the hope, peace, and joy found in Christ our Savior.