The remainder of Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium took place this Friday in Louvain.
Pope Francis arrived on Friday afternoon at approximately 4:35 p.m. at KU Leuven, where he signed the Guestbook. He was greeted by Luc Sels, the rector of the University of Louvain, Flemish Minister-President Jan Jambon, Archbishop Luc Terlinden, and Marianne Thyssen, president of the Board of Directors of KU Leuven.
The Leuven University choir welcomed the Pope with performances of works by Felix Mendelssohn, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, James Moore, and Peter C. Lutkin. The Pope listened to a speech about the history of the University of Louvain, which is celebrating its 600th anniversary—one of the reasons for his visit to Belgium.
“I am happy to be among you, and I thank the Rector for his welcoming words, which highlighted the history and tradition that this University is rooted in, as well as some of the major current challenges we all face.” declared the Pope, continuing with remarks on the role of universities: “I want to extend a simple invitation: broaden the frontiers of knowledge! This is not about increasing the amount of concepts and theories, but about making academic and cultural education a vital space that engages with life and speaks to life.“
Pope Francis also participated in an academic session focused on refugees and migration that afternoon, attended by around 250 people. “While some advocate for stricter borders, you, as an academic community, have expanded them. You have opened your arms to welcome these suffering individuals, helping them to study and grow.“
After the academic session, the Pope traveled to Louvain City Hall and the Grand Place in a cart. His route passed near Sint-Pieters Church before he left Louvain via Naamsestraat.
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The Pope’s visit to Louvain occurred without any major incidents on Friday. Police had to intervene briefly at the Grote Markt when a young woman attempted to hold up a banner. Two officers quickly arrested her, took the banner away, and checked her identity. The woman, who claimed to be the daughter of a person sexually assaulted by a clergyman, was later allowed to leave.
According to police spokesman Marc Vranckx, around 6,000 people attended the Pope’s visit. The police arrested nine individuals who protested, but no significant incidents were reported.
Arriving Thursday evening at Meslbroek airport from Luxembourg, the head of the Catholic Church was received Friday morning by King Philippe at Laeken Castle. In his speech, the Pope expressed feelings of “shame” regarding the sexual violence committed within the Church. “This is a shame that we must all take responsibility for, and“it is necessary toask for forgiveness“, added the Pope, while King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, and Prime Minister Alexander De Croo were present.
The Pope is in Belgium to commemorate the 600th anniversary of the University of Louvain. On Saturday, he will visit Louvain-la-Neuve before presiding over the Eucharist on Sunday at King Baudouin Stadium in front of over 37,500 people.
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Pope Francis’ Visit to Louvain: A Historic Celebration
The Arrival of Pope Francis
Pope Francis arrived in Belgium on Friday afternoon, around 4:35 p.m. He was greeted at KU Leuven, the esteemed university celebrating its 600th anniversary. Luc Sels, the rector of the university, welcomed the Holy Father alongside other dignitaries, including Flemish Minister-President Jan Jambon and Archbishop Luc Terlinden.
A Warm Welcome
The Leuven University choir set the tone for the occasion, performing notable works by composers such as Felix Mendelssohn, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, and Peter C. Lutkin. Pope Francis listened attentively to a speech detailing the historical significance of the University of Louvain, underscoring the university’s commitment to expanding knowledge and grappling with pressing global challenges.
“I am pleased to be among you and I thank the Rector for his words of welcome,” declared Pope Francis. “I would therefore like to send you a simple invitation: expand the frontiers of knowledge!”
Academic Session on Refugees and Migration
Following his address, the Pope engaged in an academic session focused on refugees and migration. This session brought together around 250 participants, reflecting the university’s dedication to fostering awareness and understanding regarding these urgent issues.
Pope Francis remarked on the academic community’s role in extending compassion to those in need:
“While some call for borders to be strengthened, you, as an academic community, have expanded them. You opened your arms to welcome these suffering people, to help them study and grow.”
Procession Through Louvain
After the academic session, Pope Francis was escorted to key locations within Louvain, including the Louvain City Hall and the Grand Place. This procession brought him past significant landmarks such as the Sint-Pieters Church, allowing the local community to gather and express their enthusiasm for the visit.
Security and Attendance
The visit occurred without major incidents, with approximately 6,000 attendees present. Some minor protests took place, resulting in nine arrests, yet the overall atmosphere remained positive and respectful. The coinciding events were closely monitored by law enforcement to ensure public safety.
Morning Meeting with King Philippe
Earlier that day, Pope Francis was received by King Philippe at Laeken Castle. The meeting included discussions about the Church’s acknowledgment of its failings, particularly regarding incidents of sexual violence. The Pope emphasized the importance of addressing this shame and seeking forgiveness:
“A shame that we must all take charge of and for which it is necessary to ask for forgiveness,” the Pope stated before the King, Queen Mathilde, and Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
Significance of the Visit
Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium carries substantial historical significance as it commemorates the 600th anniversary of the University of Louvain. The university’s long-standing commitment to education, research, and social responsibility resonates with the Pope’s vision for a compassionate and informed world.
Upcoming Events
Following his engagements in Louvain, Pope Francis is set to visit Louvain-la-Neuve on Saturday. The visit culminates with a Eucharistic celebration scheduled for Sunday at the King Baudouin Stadium, expected to attract over 37,500 attendees.
The Role of the University in Today’s Society
Benefits of Higher Education
- Knowledge Expansion: Universities serve as the breeding grounds for innovation and critical thought.
- Global Awareness: Academic institutions help students understand and tackle international issues, such as migration.
- Community Engagement: Higher education encourages outreach programs that support vulnerable populations.
How Universities Can Respond
In light of Pope Francis’ call to expand knowledge, universities should:
- Foster interdisciplinary research that addresses social issues.
- Provide support programs for refugees and marginalized communities.
- Encourage student activism and awareness campaigns regarding global challenges.
Reflections from the Community
Local citizens expressed their views on the Pope’s visit. Many highlighted the importance of dialogue between different cultures and religions. A member of the community stated:
“Pope Francis’ visit symbolizes hope and openness. We need more leaders who focus on unity rather than division.”
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Pope Francis’ visit to Louvain serves not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a potent reminder for universities, communities, and individuals alike to embrace the challenges of today with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to learning. As we look forward to the Pope’s upcoming events in Belgium, we are reminded of the role each of us plays in creating a more welcoming and educated world.
