Zapatero refused to attend the ceremonies in Santiago de Compostela and in Barcelona. This meeting was the only one they shared during the Pope’s trip. Zapatero’s decision, announced several days ago, raised controversy in Spain. The Pope himself contributed to the tension answering back and criticising what he called the “aggressive secularism” present in Spain nowadays, which reminded him of the 1930s atmosphere.
The Pope decided to politicise his visit to Spain. He made a brief speech on the plane after leaving Rome in which he attacked what he called “the aggressive secularism” in Spain nowadays, which reminded him of the situation in the 1930s. It is an attack against Prime Minister Zapatero’s policies and an answer to the individuals and associations protesting against the Pope’s visit. Benedict XVI also criticised Spanish government’s laws during the religious ceremonies.
The Pope has declared the temple a “basilica”. He has also praised Antoni Gaudí’s church and the architect’s talent. The Pope was cheered by believers along the streets of Barcelona on his way to the Sagrada Família. Protesters against the Pope and his visit also showed their disagreement as the Popemobile went by. The ceremony started on time and, as announced, Prime Minister Zapatero did not attend. Benedict XVI continued criticising liberal laws and vindicated the traditional family and its values
Barcelona is preparing the final details for the Pope’s visit. Benedict XVI is coming to Barcelona on Saturday night and will leave on Sunday evening. He is coming to declare the Sagrada Familia church a “basilica” and dedicate the temple to God.
The most prestigious choirs of Catalonia will sing at the religious ceremony inside Antoni Gaudí’s temple. The Orféo Català, the Coral Sant Jordi and the children’s choir of Montserrat Abbey will be amongst the participants.
Spanish Episcopal Conference states that dedicating the Sagrada Família temple to God was a “personal desire” of Benedict XVI. 1,673 journalists have registered for Barcelona’s visit.
Emergency Medical Services of Catalonia (SEM) will be equipped with 160 people, 38 ambulances and 4 hospital tents for Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Barcelona. Thousand of people, most of them old, are expected to be on the streets and in the events scheduled. Barcelona is getting ready for the Pope’s visit taking place on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th of November to bless the Sagrada Família church.