Vatican City, July 19, 2024 — Pope Francis is set to meet with victims of sexual violence during his upcoming visit to Belgium, according to a statement from the Interdiocesan Press and Information Service (SIPI) released on Friday.
The visit will run from the evening of September 26 to September 29 and will mark the 600th anniversary of KU Leuven and UCLouvain universities.
The Vatican’s detailed schedule for the Pope’s visit was unveiled on Friday, outlining a series of significant events and meetings across Belgium.
Upon arrival at Melsbroek Airport on the evening of September 26, Pope Francis will be greeted by King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, Belgian bishops, and the rectors of KU Leuven and UCLouvain.
The warm welcome reflects the significance of the Pope’s visit in both ecclesiastical and civil spheres.
On September 27, the Pope will meet with King Philippe and Queen Mathilde at Laeken Castle. His address will be directed at constitutional representatives and key figures in Belgian civil society.
This engagement underscores the importance of the visit not only in a religious context but also in the broader social and political landscape of Belgium.
Following the royal meeting, Pope Francis is scheduled to travel to Louvain, where he will deliver a speech at KU Leuven.
The focus of his address will be on the university’s commitment to social justice, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as refugees.
This highlights the Pope’s ongoing commitment to global humanitarian issues and support for marginalized communities.
The following day, September 28, Pope Francis will confer with pastoral workers at the Basilica of Koekelberg. His discussions are expected to center on the role of the Church in addressing contemporary social challenges.
In the afternoon, the Pope will move to Louvain-la-Neuve for a dialogue with students and professors on climate change, reflecting his concern for environmental issues and his call for urgent action to combat global warming.
The visit will culminate on September 29 with a major public event at the Roi Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. The Pope will celebrate a Eucharist and perform the beatification of Carmelite Anne de Jésus, a revered figure who passed away in Brussels.
This solemn occasion will be broadcast live around the world, allowing the global Catholic community to participate in the historic event.
Tickets for the Eucharist and beatification service at the Roi Baudouin Stadium will be available online from August 19, providing the public an opportunity to attend this momentous occasion.
Pope Francis’s visit to Belgium promises to be a significant and multi-faceted event, highlighting his dedication to addressing critical issues such as sexual violence, climate change, and social justice.
The detailed itinerary reflects the Pope’s commitment to engaging with various aspects of Belgian society, from academia and pastoral care to broader social and environmental concerns.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
