Off and their immediate consequences
On April 28, a general shutdown interrupted the daily routine on the Iberian Peninsula, significantly affecting the activities of religious institutions. Many temples were left without the possibility of celebrating their Eucharist, and various social and cultural initiatives were forced to suspend.
Deferred Celebrations: The case of the Book of the Dialog Table
One of the affected events was the presentation of the book ‘We believe. Interconfessional commentary on the “Creed” of the Council of Nicaa “, a project of the Liturgical Pastoral Center that sought to foster interconfessional dialogue. The presentation was scheduled for half past seven in the afternoon in Sant Pau del Camp, with the presence of Bishop Francesc Conesa, but had to be postponed due to the shutdown.
The Cathedral of Barcelona: a controlled evacuation
The Cathedral of Barcelona, one of the main tourist points of interest, was also affected. Although there were no in progress during the shutdown, visitors inside were evacuated in an orderly manner. According to the cathedral sources, it was ensured that no one was trapped in the elevators and that visitors could leave safely.
Reopening and recovery of activities
With the return of electricity, the cathedral reopened its doors, allowing the mass of 19.15 to be held normally. Instead, the Diocesan Museum closed at 4pm at 4pm.
The Sagrada Familia: an activity oasis
Unlike other temples, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia could maintain its usual activities, thanks to a generator of own energy. Only the elevators were locked by security reasons. About a thousand visitors could not access the monument that day, but they were offered the opportunity to visit it later.
Impact on the media
The shutdown not only affected religious institutions, but also the media like Christian Catalonia. The publication was made unable to carry out its usual informative work, and could not send its daily newsletter until the next day, with crucial information on the start of the conclave scheduled for May 7.
Final reflections
This incident highlights the vulnerability of institutions to unforeseen situations and the importance of having contingency plans. The ability to recover rapid places such as the Sagrada Familia and the Cathedral of Barcelona, as well as the response of the community, are examples of the collective commitment to adversities.