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SubscribeE-TEAM Spain News Archive 2009 Visit to Valle de los Caidos
The internet was not working yesterday so we were unable to update so will do now.
Yesterday, (Friday), we visited Valle de los Caidos (Valley of the fallen). On top of the mountain is a huge stone cross that measures 150 meters in height and 40 meters across. There is a church built inside a mountain that was built by General Francisco Franco, Dictator of Spain 1939-1975. Franco began a bloody civil war that lasted for three years. Spain was cut off from the rest of the world and econimically challenged (poor). This building took 18 years to build and represented power. There are ten steps leading up to the church. These steps represent the ten commandments in the Bible. It was built by political prisoners.
The entire building is 262 meters in length and is filled with tapestries that represent 8 scenes in Revelation. There are numerous statues of Jesus, apostles, angels, Mary, and beautiful mosaic pictures of many scenes from the Bible.
Franco is buried behind the wooden and stone statue of Jesus which centers the chapel. We were not allowed to take pictures during the mass. Mass is held everyday except Monday and is celebrated even if noone shows up.
We actually attended the "Mass" and saw how it is very ritualistic. It was interesting to see how the ceremony is carried out.
The cross was enormous and we were given alot of important information about it. The cross can be seen from miles away. At the base of the cross you can see 4 disciples and what he is portrayed: Matthew (angel), Mark (lion), Luke (ox), and John (eagle). Above that are the four virtues: fortitude, prudence, justice, and temperance.
"Under the Sea" Party at Alpedrete Center went very well and was loads of fun!! We had 70 that attended. The team participated in all of the different activites for the children: face painting, Go Fishing, fish craft, snack (they ate an octopus made from hot dogs),took each child's picture that was mounted in a fish frame.
Activities that the center sponsors is meant to be a service to the community. A parent of one of the children donated sand buckets with toys to each child. E-Team manned the different booths which allowed the missionaries the opportunity to talk to parents about future activities including Sunday services. Many of the parents were very grateful for what the center is doing. This is an outreach ministry that can really have an impact on the community as well as the work that the missionaries are trying to do.
Today, Saturday, we worked on Vacation Bible School projects at the center. We practiced our puppet show, songs, mime, and testimonies for tomorrow's service. We also helped get ready for the Youth party that was held tonight at the center.
For lunch today, the team was separated and went to different homes. This was an interesting experience for all but everyone was excited about it, the food and the chance to communicate with the families. Each person came back with their own story about the experience and new Spaniard friends.
Tonight, the Teen Party went well. There were around 30 teens who attended and participated in games, fellowship and pizza. It was a fun time for both the English and Spanish speaking teens.
After the party, we set up the center for Sunday services tomorrow. Please pray for the team as we sing, share testimonies, help with the puppet story, and do the mime. We will attend services tomorrow evening at another church and will do the mime, sing and give testimonies.
After this update, please check our own update. Thanks for your prayers.
Picture description:
1. The Johnsons (Tim, Kristy, Alejandro and Ana) at Valle de los Caidos
2. Valle de los Caidos
3. The team at the Alpedrete Center for "Under the Sea"
4. The team working at the center on VBS projects and practicing the puppet story
5. Jamie, Frani, Tommy and Barbara decorating outside for "Under the Sea"