A Branch rep met us at the assembly hall to provide us a tour used to be in Barcelona. Franco government influenced by Catholic Church did not recognize JW. At the time, Barcelona was best location to be near port to transport literature. Outgrew the space - current location considered a desert. When they moved Bethel in 1983 it was only thing in town. Took over space that was a large corporation complex and they acquired surrounding property to build assembly hall as well. Fun fact: Bethel complex shaped like Star of David. Nearby US military training base uses it as a landmark to land planes.
The assembly hall is actually two halls in same building can accommodate two groups at same time and each hall is soundproof so no interference. Which is important as 9 language groups are using this Hall. Seating capacity - Hall 1: 2,170 | Hall 2: 1,100 (The smaller room was originally a dining room but was converted to 2nd hall to handle the growth).
Fun facts: The Assembly hall was remodeled Feb 2023 - first assembly in March 2023 - 1,000 workers with 50% were 25 yrs old and under. Cool features: Ceiling is painted black to conceal piping with the walls and drop ceiling panels designed to enhance acoustics
Spain continues to grow!:
Our tour guide serves in the Russian field. Russian language group has grown exponentially and now a circuit. First started 14 years ago 400 in attendance - this year: 420 pioneers alone. Ukrainian is now growing due to the migration.
Such a treat: When we arrived, one of the brothers played opening scene of “Commit your way to Jehovah” on the screens next to the stage which seemed to be of equal size to the stage itself. And the sound was amazing! You might be able to see it on the screens in the auditorium pic above.
There’s no place like home!
No comments:
Post a Comment