"When we think of Belgium, we think of something both small and grand."Pope Francis (Castle of Laeken, 09/27/2024)
From September 26 to 29, 2024, Pope Francis visited Belgium, a visit full of meaning and activities. The agenda included surprise visits beyond the official program, sparking both interest and discussion.
"If you could give a color to hope, what would it be?"With this question, I introduced young people to the event called Hope Happening on Saturday. What unfolded was an incredible rainbow of responses, each color symbolizing warmth, purity, the future, or the unpredictability of hope. The young people displayed immense creativity, painting these colors and illustrating them with Bible verses, ultimately gifting these painted hopes to those in need. Their joy left a lasting impression on me. Thank you, Pope Francis, for coming to us.Katrin (Boitsfort)
"The Catholic Church wants to be a presence... that brings hope. Seeing Hope written with a capital letter makes me think: it is not something we carry in our backpacks; no, hope is a gift from God, something we carry in our hearts!"Pope Francis (Castle of Laeken, 09/27/2024)
Two Significant MomentsIn Koekelberg, Pope Francis met with pastoral leaders (bishops, priests, deacons, teachers, chaplains, and members of consecrated life). Deep questions were asked by a priest, a victim support worker, a young person, a theologian, a nun, and a prison chaplain, with the Pope offering empathetic responses. It was rewarding to feel that connection with my Church.
On Sunday, the crowd. People of all ages, cultures, and languages gathered for God, united around a servant from afar. It felt like a little taste of Heaven.Miriam of Christ Jesus (Tournai)
What I Perceived from the TV ScreenThe energy of a multicultural crowd, young and old united in joy, with diverse languages and colors. I was moved by the Pope's gestures, his warm reception to everyone, especially children and the vulnerable.Marcienne (Boitsfort)