Yodapsy, would you be able to stop at your lodging before heading out to mass at noon? If not, it's a common site to see pilgrims with their packs at mass.
11:00 a.m. is a good time to arrive and find your seat. By 11:30 it's pretty full. In church depending on whether they will have the Botafumeiro that day, a great place to sit is on the first few rows on the right or left side of the altar, and not only does it allow you to see the priest(s), but also the tiraboleiros - the 8 men who pull the ropes with great precision. The “Botafumeiro” reaches a speed of 68 kilometers per hour; there are 17 cycles, which leaves everyone with a lasting impression. I hope you will be able to experience it!
The security police is very helpful in accommodating/finding seating for pilgrims. One inappropriate thing that I saw was for a person to be reserving a spot or spots for people who are not there. If you see this happening, security will ensure that those spaces are given up. Mass is not a spectacle or a show, (perhaps for some it is), it's a solemn celebration that requires respect from all; you will see, though that in spite of repeating the request to not take pictures or video during mass, so many do. Security, unfortunately is not enough to stop this. Don 't let this lack of respect distract you from this wonderful celebration. So many emotions and a peaceful sense with oneself all flow from within us! It is an incredible journey!
Ultreia and Congratulations to you and your sons!
Mary
