In 1965 a community blossomed. The Parroquia de San Bernabé opened its doors. It wouldn’t have its own building for years. Religious services initially took place in a local community center. Later they moved to the Santo Domingo school.
This is the Parroquia de San Bernabé. It’s more than just a church. It’s a cornerstone of this neighborhood. For over fifty years it has served as a spiritual home. Many were baptized confirmed or married within its walls.
Think about it. Priests came and went. Don Vicente Páez served. So did Dominican friars Porfirio Pérez Alberto Carmona and Pedro Riesco. Diocesan priests Antonio García Pablo Fernández and Julián Azcona also contributed to the parish’s rich tapestry.
The late 1980s brought changes. Secularization impacted religious practice. A changing population and fewer parishioners affected the church. But the spirit of San Bernabé persevered.
Today the Parroquia de San Bernabé continues its mission. Daily and holiday masses are celebrated. The rosary is recited. The church also offers many activities. There’s a parish choir. There are craft workshops. It even provides after-school tutoring. It supports the sick and houses a Cáritas welcoming office.
Cáritas Parroquial helps those in need. Food is distributed. Vouchers for local shops are provided. Financial aid is given for small and large needs. This is thanks to the Vicarage’s Cáritas donations from individuals and a special Christmas collection.
The church also organizes annual excursions. These are for community building and cultural enjoyment. Even today the Parroquia de San Bernabé remains a vital part of the community.
Who was San Bernabé you ask? His original name was José. The apostles renamed him Bernabé meaning son of exhortation. Or perhaps the strong one the one who encourages and excites. The Acts of the Apostles tells us he sold his property. He gave the money to the apostles to share among the poor. He was a collaborator of St. Paul. Upon Paul’s return from Jerusalem three years after his conversion Bernabé supported him. He interceded for Paul’s acceptance among the other apostles. He was likely among the seventy disciples mentioned in the Gospels. Early Church Fathers considered him an apostle as did St. Luke. The legacy of San Bernabé lives on. This church is a testament to his spirit of generosity and faith. The Parroquia de San Bernabé carries the torch of that legacy. It continues to nurture faith and community in this corner of Madrid.