I noticed that I sold Sonseca's spirituality short as I focused so much on just my personal experience of the people and the fun I had. So I just wanted to bridge the gap with a few words about what Sonseca gave me spiritually.
First off as you may know, the population of Spain is over 90% catholic, thus the amazing history reinforced through the amazing churches, cathedrals, saints and mystics.
But to base Spains spiritual richness on the amazing architecture and historical monuments, however great they are, would in my eyes be selling spain far short of where the real treasure lies.
However cliche it sounds I'm telling you now. Gods love and presence is expressed more clearly in the hearts of the people. Ever since I've left sonseca I've done naught but desire going back. They had a community so open, so tight and so damn accepting that it blows my mind. I struggle to write these words as I know I can't express what it feels like to join a community where the holy spirit is so active, alive and moving in the people that surround you.
Even at mass when I'm sitting there racking my brain to is limits trying to understand every 15th word, the Spaniards enter into the mass with an unmatched enthusiasm. Not only as the congregation, but any who can offer assistance with music, singing, eucharistic ministry do so without thinking twice.
No member of the community its estranged, and no exclusive behaviour us seen. They all share the life that Jesus calls us too. Almost unconditional, and free no matter the other person our the barriers that stand between.
In sharing with others I learned that families that had been out if work for months even opted to take on pilgrims, and in the most literal way offered and shared all they had and sometimes more to ensure that the pilgrims were happy.
This behaviour is such a rarity in Australia a country so deprived if faith.
So to those who say "religion does nothing for society"
I say " Venga a ver por ti mismo!"
Sam xx
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