Junipero Serra archives

Ruben Mendoza, director of the California missions archaeological program at Cal State Monterey Bay, is half Yaqui Indian and half Mexican American. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

March 16, 2015 2:01 PM PT

Historians are reappraising Father Junipero Serra, who is scheduled to be elevated to sainthood by Pope Francis.

A leather-bound volume of public records, many of which were recorded and signed by Father Junipero Serra. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

The signature of Father Junipero Serra from July 1784.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

A statue of Father Junipero Serra outside the San Carlos Cathedral Royal Presidio Chapel. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Sonoma State anthropology master’s candidate Jennifer Lucido walks past San Carlos Cathedral.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Ruben Mendoza looks over original manuscripts by Father Junipero Serra as mission archivist the Rev. Carl Faria, right, and museum docent Dotty Weisheit watch. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

A statue of Father Junipero Serra overlooks the Monterey Bay on the grounds of the Presidio. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Visitors view a portrait of Father Junipero Serra on his burial spot at the altar of the Carmel Mission Basilica. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)