Orthodox Prison Ministry Holds First Study Day in Belgium
Belgium’s first Orthodox Prison Ministry study day explored pastoral care in correctional institutions, featuring insights from a Dutch prison chaplain.
GHENT, BELGIUM — On Saturday, February 7, 2026, the Orthodox Prison Ministry in Belgium held its first study day at the parish of St. Andrew, bringing together clergy and chaplains from across the Metropolis to reflect on pastoral care in correctional institutions. The "study day" is a workshop for clergy and chaplains to learn, share experiences, and discuss best practices in the context of Orthodox prison ministry.
The day began with the Divine Liturgy in the historic chapel of the Apostles Andrew and Sophronius, presided over by Metr. Athenagoras of Belgium, Exarch of the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Concelebrating clergy included Orthodox prison chaplains and other members of the Metropolis. The gathering aimed to highlight the crucial role of spiritual and human support for men and women serving sentences.
Following the liturgy, participants shared a fraternal meal before attending a keynote presentation by the Reverend Protopresbyter Fr. Ioannis Psomas of the Ecumenical Throne. Drawing on his experience as a prison chaplain in the Netherlands, Fr. Ioannis spoke on “Ministry to Prisoners in the Netherlands: Similarities, Differences, and Challenges,” emphasizing pastoral presence with prisoners in the spirit of Matthew 25:36: "I was in prison, and you came to visit me."
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Irenée visited the imprisoned.
