Demonstrations

I did a lot of different things today including the ProLife conference, a long stroll down Gran Via, plus seeing the Palacio Real and the Cathedral. The biggest ordeal were the anti-Catholic demonstrations at the Puerta del Sol. We came up from the Metro at night and there were huge areas of the streets blocked off by a dozen police vans and tens of cops. Apparently there were some upset Spanish people marching in protest against us Catholics doting signs that talk bad about the pope -- about him being anti-condoms and not having to pay for this event while their taxes are rising. What they don't realize is how much we love their country and how much money we are putting into their economy. I saw people carrying mean signs on the Metro and I peeled anti-Catholic stickers off walls and street signs. Someone told Ashley to "Go Home" since she was wearing a pilgrim's backpack.

Don't worry! There were so many police men there and we were well surrounded by other Catholic pilgrims. We also think that the enemy is hopping mad but we are glad God showed us the demonstations so we know what is going on. I feel proud to be here in Madrid with a million fellow Catholics. It's so powerful to see Our Church represented in dozens of languages and cultures. No other denomination could hold an event like this. We are strong and we are full of faith. No paper sign is going to worry us because God is in control.

fbt&<3

Sabrina