Holy Space, Holy Family: La Segarde Familia Basilica

We had been traveling throughout Spain for nearly seven days. The tour was glorious, we saw so much beauty, so much history, and so much of the human spirit that was captured in art, architecture, cuisine, and monuments of this proud country. We had visited cities like Toledo, Cordoba, and Seville,  and we saw  ancient cathedrals, churches, basilicas and synagogues that bridged the chasm between the human and the divine. We saw the flamboyance, rhythm,  and ease of Flamenco dancers, and we were taken to heights unknown as we listened to, and appreciated the talent and serenity of Spanish guitar players. There were many joyful and holy moments that endeared us to the land rich in history, rich in culture. 

We arrived in Barcelona and our tour guide took us through the streets of Barcelona talking about how history defined their culture and how the Catholic faith defined their traditions and their belief system. He talked about an architect named Antoni Gaudi who shaped the streets of Barcelona with his unique, and sometimes very strange idea of beauty. As we walked and listened to our guide talk about the life and art of Gaudi,  we soon found our way to La Segarde Familia Basilica -- the Basilica of the Holy Family. We were not going into the building, but he talked to us about the amazing sculptures, windows, and high Gothic spires that represented the gospels, apostles and other significant religious people that have defined the Christian faith.

By now, we were all getting a little weary of yet another church. Certainly in the states and in other places throughout the world, there are any number of Holy Family Basilicas, churches, and cathedrals. There would be paintings, drawing and sculptures depicting the the Holy Family, Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus. Maybe they would be in cave, a stable or an open creche. Perhaps there would be shepherds, kings, or angels, but the focus would be on the Holy Family. Did I really want to see this? How would it be different than other buildings dedicated to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Instead of being a place inclusive of all families, it would be a Holy place for only Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus. This is what I imagined as we walked around this amazing architectural wonder that was started in 1882 and is not scheduled to be completed before the year 2026. It is still a structure in process and becoming what Gaudi imagined decades earlier. 

The next day after the local tour, I paid the fees to tour inside of the basilica. When I entered the structure,  I was drawn by the beauty of the sunlight shining through the carefully planned and crafted stain glass windows. It was as if the colors of the sunrise or sunset were breaking through a dark wood, encircling our spirits and drawing us into God's grandeur and splendor. The pillars like the trees of the forest would protect us from harm. Surprisingly, the altar, the worship fixtures, and decorations within the sanctuary were not grandiose or ostentatious, but simple and inviting. No matter where you stood within the confines of the building, you felt as though you belonged. It was more than a sacred space for Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus, it is a place for all people even those who are not particularly religious. This feeling of unity and belonging would be reinforced with the carving  of the Lord's Prayer  rendered in 52 languages on what would be the main door that would welcome the seeker into this holy place. This door would invite all God's people to  enter and find one's own way to praise the living and creating God.It is a sacred place for God's holy family.