In Tremelo, a municipality in Flemish Brabant, they have been yearning for a visit from the Pope for 30 years. It is a quaint town, with a population of less than 15,000 and lacking any significant landmarks. However, Father Damien, a martyr of compassion who dedicated his life to caring for lepers in Hawaii until his untimely death due to infection in 1989, was born there. He was later canonized in 2009. In 1994, there was hope that Pope John Paul II would make a stop in Tremelo during his official visit to Belgium, only to be dashed when he suffered a broken femur. The disappointment was further compounded in 1995 when the planned route excluded Brussels, leaving the inhabitants of Tremelo in a state of great dismay, a disappointment they have yet to fully recover from. Consequently, upon learning that Pope Bergoglio, also known as Pope Francis, intends to visit again, the Mayor and the people of Tremelo were galvanized into action to ensure Tremelo becomes a significant stop on this momentous journey.

Unpleasantly, the upcoming trip has become a major subject of discussion in Belgium. His Holiness was invited by the royal family during an audience at the Vatican and also by the rectors, as one of the highlights will be the celebration of the 600th anniversary of the Catholic University of Leuven. Additionally, the strong relationships that the Argentine Jesuit has cultivated over time with colleagues in both Flanders and Wallonia have contributed to the invitation. Belgium holds a special place in Pope Francis’ heart.

However, the pervasive issue overshadowing the visit is the rampant sexual abuse of hundreds of children. A documentary titled “Godvergeten” (Forsaken by the Hand of God) aired in September and stirred up a storm that still rages. The series sheds light on the long history of abuses and massive cover-ups, prompting a parliamentary inquiry and raids. It has also sparked calls for the Belgian federal authorities to cease the payment of salaries to religious ministers, which includes not only priests and deacons, but also lay individuals appointed by bishops.

Above all, the series has resurrected one of the most painful and perplexing cases; that of Bishop Roger Vangheluwe from Bruges. In 2010, he was ousted from his position after admitting to sexually abusing his nephew and subsequently, other nephews. Despite repeated pleas from authorities to the Vatican, urging the removal of Vangheluwe’s title and the revocation of his right to celebrate Mass, no action has been taken. Even Prime Minister Alexander de Croo, after a recent meeting with the Apostolic Nuncio, reiterated the importance of stripping Vangheluwe of his title and highlighting the significance for the victims. The glaring silence and complicity within the walls of Rome have become noticeable. When Pope Francis first appeared in St. Peter’s Square after his election, he was accompanied by the now-deceased Belgian Cardinal Godfried Danneels, who was known to be close to him. In an audio recording that has surfaced, Danneels can be heard pressuring the abused young man relentlessly to refrain from accusing his uncle. During a recent appearance in Parliament, the secretary of the Episcopal Conference, who also advocates for stricter measures, emphasized the necessity for clarity on this matter, stating that it would be challenging for Pope Francis to have a peaceful visit to Belgium without addressing the issue and meeting with abuse survivors.

The 87-year-old prelate has been secluded in a French community for the past three decades and has faced mounting pressure to resign, in hopes of bringing a resolution to the crisis and facilitating healing. However, it seems that time has caught up with him, as apologies alone hold little value if actions do not follow suit.