But Vint says construction hasn't come to a complete halt.

"Instead of working on the east tower, we've taken on a smaller project, which is the restoration of the east arcade outside of the sacristy," said Vint. "That structure was built in the early 1800s."

Over the past two decades, the Patronato, a non-profit that helps raise funds for the mission, has aided in renovating the west bell tower and the church's interior.

The removal of soot and oil paints has exposed the white dove's most colorful murals, many of which the Tohono O'odham people hand painted.

"The art is of traditional Catholic icons: the Virgin Mary and different saints, but they are using their own hand and creating a hybrid cultural product," said University of Arizona History Department Head, Kevin Gosner.

But it's not just the paintings that bring San Xavier to life; it's the mission's atmosphere.

"Every time I go inside the church, I see something new," said Jorge Benitez, a parishioner. "Every time I light up a candle for a family member or a friend, it's a surprise. "

Like many of the church's parishioners, Benitez says he prays for the funding of the church's renovations.

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