Pope in Barcelona blesses world’s tallest church

Pope in Barcelona blesses world’s tallest church

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Barcelona on Tuesday as part of his ongoing visit to Spain. During his stay, he will celebrate Mass at the iconic Sagrada Familia Basilica and bless its newly completed central tower, which has made the landmark the tallest church in the world.

The visit comes on the fourth day of the Pope’s trip to Spain. Earlier, he departed from Madrid after delivering a historic address to the Spanish Parliament and leading an outdoor Mass attended by around 1.5 million people.

Before leaving the capital, Leo thanked thousands of volunteers who helped organize and support the large scale security and logistics operations for his events. These included activities held at Madrid’s famous Bernabeu Stadium.

Large crowds gathered outside the city’s Gothic Cathedral hours before the Pope’s arrival despite tight security measures. Many worshippers expressed joy at the opportunity to see him in person.

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Roberto Crespo, a local carpenter, said he expects the Pope to receive a warm welcome. According to him, many people still hold strong religious beliefs despite the steady decline in religious practice across Spain in recent decades.

On Wednesday, Leo will meet prisoners and visit the historic Montserrat Abbey, located about 60 kilometers from Barcelona. He will then return to the city for a special Mass at the Sagrada Familia.

The ceremony holds special significance because it marks 100 years since the death of renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, who designed the basilica. Gaudi died on June 10, 1926, after being struck by a tram while on his way to pray.

The Sagrada Familia remains one of the world’s most recognized churches. Although construction is still ongoing, nearly five million people visited the site last year.

After the Mass, Pope Leo XIV will bless the newly completed Jesus Christ Tower. The tower rises to 172.5 meters. As a result, the Sagrada Familia is now the tallest church in the world.

 

 

 

 

Content Credit: Idowu Adigun

Image Credit: Facebook.com