Belgium Sexual Abuse Survivors Urge Pope Francis for Acknowledgment, Justice
A group of sexual abuse survivors from Belgium has issued an open letter to Pope Francis, urging him to formally recognize their suffering and take action. The letter, published on Thursday, highlights the survivors’ call for justice and acknowledgment as the pontiff prepares to visit Belgium later this month.
While praising Pope Francis for addressing the issue of abuse within the Catholic Church, the survivors noted that he has yet to directly address them as a collective. “You have never spoken to us, the survivors, as a whole,” they wrote, asking the pope to send a message of healing and support to the countless lives affected by abuse.
The letter also urged the Church to reflect on mandatory celibacy for priests, arguing that it can contribute to harmful behaviors. Additionally, the survivors called for thorough investigations into dioceses, increased awareness campaigns, specialized training for clergy and educators, and financial compensation for victims.
Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Luxembourg on Sept. 26, followed by a trip to Belgium from Sept. 26-29, where he will meet with victims and visit cities including Brussels, Leuven, and Louvain-la-Neuve.
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