October 25, Day 20 Creation

Word for the day: Creation:  the process of bringing something into existence.  So, no matter YOUR creation  story; you have to appreciate this one.  We stopped in a 12th century church in Tarrega, walking from Verdu.  Many of the churches were burned down or nearly lost during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930’s.    When this one was rebuilt, some artists painted the whole Bible stories.  So, here goes:

And God made the world in 7 days! To the right  is the 🍎 tree, but the railing is blocking Adam and Eve.

If you look closely to the right, you can see Cain being banished after killing Abel.  To the left is Noah’s Ark and notice the rainbow and the animals!

To the right is Abraham’s sacrifice of his son, and lamb

To the left, I believe, is the tribes of Israel wandering in the desert.

Next is the burning bush (right), when Moses discovered the 10 commandments.  And the left is the parting of the Red Sea.

And then the story turns to the New Testament.  The 3 horses on the right represent the magi, and the gifts are below!  on the right, is Joseph, pondering his marriage to Mary.  And above, Mary also praying for guidance.

And finally, Jesus’ death and resurrection. The soldiers guarding the tomb on the left; and the resurrection on the right.!  Alleluia!

And on the alter, a beautiful pastel of the farmland and scenery around Terraga. The photo does not do it Justice! But, a wonderful creation story!

The Spanish have a great devotion to the blessed Virgin Mary.  In fact, unlike most American churches, where the crucifix is front and center; most of the churches we visited have Mary at the center of the alter, with a small crucifix off to the side. 

Our final stopping point today was Cervera!  This was the center of Catalonia independence, establishing a democratic government in the 1137!  But the War of Spanish Succession (1701-1714) brought and end to the independent government of Catalonia.  So, it seems that Catalonia and Castile have been at odds for centuries.  

Following the surrender, the Spanish government banned the political institutions and rights.  They closed down all Universities in Catalonia, except for one here in Cervera. It was the first Jesuit university in Spain. (This info comes from Wikepedia and our fast history lesson from Father Josep Iriberri, our incredibly knowledgeable guide in this Camino; so my accuracy may not be totally right).  However, it helped me understand why so many in Catalonia want independence.  It seems they have been dominated by other areas of Spain and have had their rights suspended at different times in their history. 

So creation. Really, we need to create a just world!  One where all human rights are respected.  One that Jesus talks about, and tried to change by turning the tables in the temple.  It’s time for more table turning!!

Jeez Louise!