Pope Francis Concludes Visit to Belgium

Pope Francis completed a significant visit to Belgium, marking the first papal trip to the country since 1995. During his four-day stay, he emphasized the need for transparency in addressing sexual abuse within the Church, urging bishops to condemn perpetrators and assist victims in healing. The pontiff's remarks on women's roles within the Church, however, sparked criticism, particularly among younger and more progressive attendees, as he reiterated traditional views on issues like abortion. Many expressed disappointment at his failure to engage meaningfully with calls for reform, especially regarding the inclusion of women in clerical roles. Despite this, the visit saw large turnouts at events, including an open-air Mass that attracted around 40,000 participants. The trip, aimed at celebrating the 600th anniversary of Leuven University, highlighted the ongoing struggles between the Vatican's teachings and the secular values increasingly embraced by Belgian society.