Mission Guides to Sing on TV Morning Show

The docents of Mission San Juan Capistrano are known for their vivid storytelling, not for their talent as singers. But they will soon be serenading the nation from among the rose gardens and cloisters of the 220-year-old landmark.

Last week, 33 of the docents taped a spot for broadcast on “CBS This Morning.” For the 20-second clip, which will air sometime this summer, the docents performed a rendition of the show’s theme song: “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning.”

Besides showing off the tranquil beauty of the landmark, the TV spot honors some of the nation’s hardest-working volunteers, mission officials said.

“Our docents work so hard here,” said Marge Elwell, president of the Mission Docent Society, adding that they conduct hundreds of tours a month. “I thought, what a clever way to give our docents the recognition they deserve.”

Elwell contacted the producers of the national morning show earlier this year, then arranged to have the spot taped locally.

The mission has about 100 docents--volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life. They guide visitors around the mission grounds, breathing life into the adobe bricks and crumbling ruins of the Great Stone Church for thousands of visitors each year.

From the youngest, who is 22, to the oldest, 84, the docents have one thing in common, Elwell said: “They have a real love and enthusiasm for the history of this beautiful place.”

Mission officials say they could use more volunteers.

Docent candidates must know the rich history of the mission and the surrounding area. They also must enjoy talking with people.

“It’s not work, it’s a privilege,” said 79-year-old Charles H. Dow, a Dana Point resident who once served with the Los Angeles Fire Department and is now a docent. Information: (714) 248-2047.