07 Apr Easter Story: Spain

From Brenda Anderson, UB endorsed missionary (with husband Ron) in Spain

Typical of Spain are the religious processions. People carry elaborate statues that weigh thousands of pounds, lifted by up to 200 men and marched through the streets with candles atop, with bands playing funeral music behind. People line the streets in their best clothing, and special pastries are made. Most hope to return to their home town to participate.

The privilege of carrying these platforms with statues of Jesus or Mary is handed down from one generation to another. It is all very full of idolatry, and one can sense a religiosity without spirituality of knowing God.

Therefore, many Christians try to escape all this. Instead, they have Christian retreats from Thursday through Sunday, including special times of worship and ministering from the Word of God, good food and games, and relaxing together at a camp or other place. This year we did not attend one of these camps, for we are beginning a church plant and it didn’t seem to fit, but we did have a sunrise service, followed by breakfast together, and a special communion service.