Belgian Church pays hundreds of thousands of euros for broadcasts of papal visit
The Belgian Church is spending hundreds of thousands of euros to film the public events during Pope Francis' visit to Belgium. The Vatican requires host countries to film all public appearances of the Pope and provide the footage free of charge.
A Belgian production company has been hired to handle the filming. "It’s something the Vatican always asks," said Geert De Kerpel, spokesperson for the Belgian bishops. "It has to be professional and of high quality, but it will remain modest."
While the Church is covering the costs, it hopes to offset some expenses through donations, gifts and a collection during the papal Mass. Additionally, the Church is responsible for another 200,000 euros to cover the rent and extra costs of hosting Sunday's Mass at the King Baudouin Stadium, where admission will be free for attendees.
"It has to be professional and of high quality, but it will remain modest"
Pope Francis is set to arrive in Melsbroek on Thursday evening. Although the official reason for his visit is to commemorate the 600th anniversary of KU Leuven, it is expected to energise the Catholic community both in Belgium and internationally.
The highlight of the visit will be the Mass held on Sunday morning, with 37,500 people expected to attend.
In light of repeated sexual abuse in the Catholic Church in Belgium, a private meeting between the pope and a selection of victims has also been scheduled, but it will not be open to the public.
Fifteen people who suffered abuse have been chosen to meet with the Pope in person; nine men and six women. Victims who were not chosen to be part of the meeting can write a letter, which the bishops will hand over to the Pope.
Pope Francis meets the Catholic community at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg City, 26 September 2024 © PHOTO ALBERTO PIZZOLI / AFP
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