Reflection by: Marian Chow
Chronicles of a pilgrim – Day 3 – Barcelona
#sequelachristi2024
It’s day 3 of the pilgrimage and I am excited for what is to come. To start the day, we visited the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church of Atonement on Tibidabo Hill. Although the visit was brief, the sculpture of St George, patron saint of Barcelona caught my attention. After learning about the legend that he killed a dragon to save the princess, that roses were grown from the dragon’s blood, it piques my interest that I start noticing St George cross motifs incorporated in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church of Atonement and Basilica of Montserrat to express their devotion to St George. Perhaps, these motifs might seem as seen as a way to express God’s love and tribute to St George.
Taken at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church of Atonement
Taken at the Basilica of Montserrat
In the afternoon, we spent our time at the Basilica on Montserrat. It was quiet which gives me time to take in its serenity while appreciating in the majestic view. Perhaps it is God’s way of telling me to not think of anything, just focus on the now.
Taken at Montserrat
I never imagine myself attending mass at Basilica of Montserrat. The interior is jaw dropping with its Romanesque architecture and intricate details from the mosaic tiles and motifs. It is an opportunity to attend mass at a sacred site filled with its rich history.
After mass, we went to see the statue of Our Lady of Montserrat (Moreneta or Black Madonna). I never thought I would imagine myself seeing a sacred relic right before me. It is simple yet it holds significance in the Catalan region. I feel honoured.
Taken at the Basilica of Montserrat
To summarise my feelings, I felt at peace and mesmerised by the site and the relic. We are heading to Lourdes tomorrow and I am looking forward to it.