Pope Francis to Address Migrant Needs and Clergy Abuse During Luxembourg and Belgium Visit

Pope Francis is set to visit Luxembourg and Belgium despite having mild flu. Scheduled for Sept. 26-29, this rare European trip will focus on the needs of migrants and includes a private meeting with abuse survivors. The visit also commemorates the 600th anniversary of two Belgian Catholic universities.

Pope Francis is moving forward with a four-day visit to Luxembourg and Belgium, even as he battles a mild flu. The trip, running from Sept. 26-29, aims to spotlight the needs of migrants and features a private meeting with survivors of clerical sexual abuse.

The Vatican confirmed the 87-year-old pontiff's travel plans, although he had to cancel some meetings earlier due to flu-like symptoms. This European visit is a rarity for Francis, who often prefers locations with a small Catholic minority or never previously visited by a pope. The tour follows his recent rigorous 12-day journey across Southeast Asia and Oceania.

During his visit, Francis will celebrate the 600th anniversary of two Belgian Catholic universities and hear testimonies from migrants. Despite a decline in church attendance in Belgium, the pope’s visit is anticipated to be a poignant event. Francis is also expected to address the ongoing refugee crisis in Europe, with Belgium providing temporary protection to around 60,000 people in 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)