The Pope in Belgium. Catholic university protests after words about women. Francis surprised the festival participants

In a statement distributed to journalists immediately after Francis' visit, which was enthusiastically welcomed by students, it was emphasized that the University criticized “the pope's conservative position on the role of women in society.”

The Catholic university further explained in a statement that it expressed “lack of understanding and disapproval of the position presented regarding the role of women in the Church and society.”

It was noted that the university does not agree with the Pope's words that “a woman is a fertile acceptance, care, life-giving sacrifice.” These words were considered “deterministic and belittling”.

The university is “inclusive”, fights “sexist and sexual violence” and supports the development of every person, regardless of gender and sexual orientation, and appeals to the Church to follow the same path “without any form of discrimination,” the statement emphasized.

At the same time, appreciation was expressed for the Pope's words on the climate and his opinion that it is blasphemous to use religion as a tool of domination.

Pope Francis he unexpectedly appeared on Saturday evening at the youth festival taking place in Brussels in connection with his visit.

At the end of the day, the Pope visited the participants of the Hope Happening event, organized near the capital's stadium before Sunday mass in the spirit of World Youth Day.

About six thousand people gathered there and suddenly it was announced that Francis was coming to them. Greeted enthusiastically, the Pope turned to young people: “Do you know what young people are doing? Young people are making a fuss.” – I'll give you some advice: keep moving forward, always make a fuss – said Francis, and then added: – And I'm asking you, help others.

The Pope said goodbye to the young people, saying that he would meet them on Sunday.