During Pope Francis’ trip to Belgium, he made a surprise visit to Saint Gilles to meet with homeless and undocumented people. In a change to his schedule, he sat down with 10 individuals over croissants and coffee, listening to their experiences and challenges. Among the group was a migrant who had lost his faith but found it again after meeting with the Pope. Father Benjamin Kabongo, who works with the homeless at Saint Gilles, emphasized the importance of the Pope listening to those who are often overlooked by society. Shortly after the visit, Pope Francis addressed local bishops, priests, and the Catholic community at the Koekelberg Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
The Pope faced public criticisms from the Belgian king, prime minister, and the rector of Leuven Catholic University during his trip. These criticisms highlighted issues such as the church’s cover-up of clergy sexual abuse, as well as its refusal to address demands for inclusion from women and LGBTQ+ Catholics. Francis met with those who had been harmed by the Catholic Church in Belgium, including survivors of clergy abuse and single mothers who were pressured to give up their children for adoption. The rector of Leuven Catholic University suggested that the church should consider reforming, including the ordination of women as priests, in order to regain relevance and moral authority. Despite the criticisms, Pope Francis expressed regret, asked for forgiveness, and promised to prevent such abuses from happening again.
The Pope’s visit to Belgium was part of a larger four-day trip to Luxembourg and Belgium. His visit included meeting with vulnerable individuals and survivors of clergy abuse, as well as addressing local bishops, priests, and the Catholic community. Despite facing criticism from public figures in Belgium, Pope Francis expressed remorse and a commitment to preventing future abuses within the church. His interactions with those who are often marginalized, such as homeless and undocumented individuals, highlighted his dedication to compassion and listening to those experiencing hardship. Overall, Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium showcased his willingness to engage with challenging issues and strive for reform within the Catholic Church.
Overall, Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium was marked by efforts to connect with marginalized individuals, such as homeless and undocumented people, as well as survivors of clergy abuse. In addition to meeting with these individuals, the Pope addressed criticisms from public figures in Belgium regarding the church’s handling of clergy abuse and issues of inclusion. Despite facing challenges and calls for reform, Pope Francis expressed remorse and a commitment to preventing future abuses within the church. His visit underscored his dedication to compassion and listening to those experiencing hardship, while also acknowledging the need for change and accountability within the Catholic Church. Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium reflected his efforts to engage with difficult issues and work towards a more inclusive and just church.
