Pope in Spain Nov 6th 2010

Pope in Spain: Mass in the Plaza del Obradoiro

The first Mass of the Pope’s Apostolic Visit to Spain took place in Obradoiro Square next to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The square was filled to capacity with over 7,000 people  present, including an estimated 600 priests and 100 Cardinals and Bishops. Another 20,000 people were in the vicinity for the event.

The Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela welcomed the Holy Father in the local Galician language.  In his address, the Archbishop warmly thanked the Pope for his visit, saying that their desire to have him join them had finally come true. He called Pope Benedict a pilgrim of faith and witness of the risen Christ.  He reflected on some of the oldest Christian pilgrimages in our history. He said Jerusalem, Rome and Santiago are routes for the man who refuses to choke on materialism. He reiterated Pope Benedict’s earlier remarks inside the Cathedral; that the country of Spain needs  a revitalization of its faith. He says the Church is Spain must find the strength to go on a pilgrimage to re-evangelize.

The music throughout the Mass was performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Galicia, accompanied by the Choir of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The music was all performed in a classical style, known to be the Pope’s favourite type of music. One of their pieces was a beautiful rendition of Mozart’s Kyrie Eleison.

Pope Benedict’s Homily focused on the Christian roots of European Continent. He called for a return to faith and a rejection of Western secularism.  The Pope once again called himself a pilgrim among pilgrims who are thirsting for faith. The pilgrim symbol resonated throughout the Pope’s Homily. Find the full text below:

Mass, Plaza del Obradoiro, Santiago de Compostela

Homily of the Holy Father

6 November 2010

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ,

I give thanks to God for the gift of being here in this splendid square filled with artistic, cultural and spiritual significance.  During this Holy Year, I come among you as a pilgrim among pilgrims, in the company of all those who come here thirsting for faith in the Risen Christ, a faith proclaimed and transmitted with fidelity by the apostles, among whom was James the Great, who has been venerated at Compostela from time immemorial.

I extend my gratitude to the Most Reverend Julián Barrio Barrio, Archbishop of this local church, for his words of welcome, to their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Asturias for the kind presence, and likewise to the Cardinals and to my many Brother Bishops and priests here today.  My greeting also goes to members of the Camino de Santiago group of the European Parliament, as well as to the national, regional and local authorities who are attending this celebration.