E-TEAM Spain News Archive 2008 Mass, Monks, and Monasteries

June 25th, 2008

Today began like any other day in Spain, with breakfast outside at the Covent Garden. Immediately after the meal, we headed to Valle de los Caidos (Valley of the Fallen). We observed mass in the basilica and then had a discussion about the differences and similarities between Evangelical Christianity and Catholicism. We took a short break and then a hike to the top of the mountain and the foot of the giant cross. The view from the top was awe inspiring, and everyone left with a profound feeling for who God really is. We had lunch at Burger King once again and enjoyed some time to sit and talk while eating. We soon headed to Real Monasterio De El Escorial, which is a monastery that is still used and even houses a school and music conservatory. It was originally built in the 1500s as the palace for Phillip II. After our tour, everyone was very pleased to learn that we were going to be able to take a siesta this afternoon. Everyone enjoyed the hour and a half nap and woke refreshed. Tonight finds us at our host missionaries houses again, where we are enjoying a wonderful meal and fun afterwards. That's our day in a nutshell. Thanks for your prayers and see you soon!

Picture Captions

Picture #1: The group at the enterance to the basilica
Picture #2: The gigantic cross at the Valley of the Fallen
Picture #3: View from the the basilica courtyard - Valley of the Fallen