Pope Francis has embarked on a significant tour through Luxembourg and Belgium to advocate for peace and address critical issues within the Catholic Church. In Luxembourg, he called for global peace negotiations, emphasizing the need to resolve conflicts and heal divisions in Europe. The Pope's journey included driving through Luxembourg City with Cardinal Hollerich, where he witnessed protests from PETA activists demanding the condemnation of bullfighting. Security forces intervened when an activist attempted to storm the Popemobile.
During his visit, Pope Francis met with Grand Duke Henri and Prime Minister Luc Frieden, highlighting Europe's role as a beacon of hope and the importance of welcoming migrants. He also visited the Grand Ducal Palace and posed for a family photo with the Grand Duke's family.
In Belgium, Pope Francis met with the Belgian royal couple and bishops, visited the Catholic University of Leuven, and held a mass at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, where 35,000 people were expected. His visit also included a meeting with European Council President Charles Michel. Notably, Pope Francis is anticipated to engage with victims of sexual violence by clergy, responding to calls from church-critical organizations for greater transparency, compensation for victims, ordination of women, and an end to celibacy.
Throughout his tour, Pope Francis has faced opposition to Vatican teachings on contraception, sexual morals, and the long-standing abuse cover-up within the Church. Despite these challenges, his visit has been marked by significant public interest, with thousands of people greeting him and participating in public viewings and mass gatherings. The Pope's message of peace, openness, and reform resonates deeply, highlighting his commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the Catholic Church and society at large.
