The recent visit of the Pope to Belgium has sparked controversy due to his statements on abortion and the status of women. As a result, hundreds of Belgians are seeking to renounce their baptisms. This decision comes after the Pope’s remarks, such as calling doctors who perform abortions “hired killers” and making comments on the role of women in Belgium. These statements have left many Belgians, like Stéphane, deeply disappointed and angry.
Stéphane, who was baptized as a child but did not come from a practicing family, expressed his shock at the Pope’s comments. His decision to renounce his baptism was further solidified by the Pope’s remarks, leading him to write an open letter that garnered hundreds of signatures from citizens wanting to follow the same path. Among the signatories is Valérie, a psychologist who assists women considering abortion and felt compelled to renounce her baptism after the Pope’s statements.
The Center for Secular Action has received numerous emails from citizens seeking to distance themselves from the Church since September. While the process of renouncing baptism involves writing a letter to the parish or diocese where the baptism took place, it is considered a symbolic gesture with no religious significance.
Despite the emotional impact on the Church when individuals choose to renounce their baptism, the Church respects personal convictions. However, the financial impact of this trend on the Catholic Church is minimal, as public support for religion is not linked to the number of believers.
Renouncing baptism means relinquishing access to certain sacraments such as religious marriage and church funerals, but for individuals like Stéphane, it is a way to align with their values and convictions. The trend of renouncing baptism has been observed in Belgium over the years due to various factors, such as the Church’s stance on issues like same-sex marriage and sexual abuse scandals.
Ultimately, the decision to renounce baptism is a deeply personal one that reflects an individual’s beliefs and values. As more Belgians choose to distance themselves from the Catholic Church, it raises questions about the evolving relationship between religion and society in Belgium.