the doc spot: The World really has gone mad .

I just had to re-post this , untouched , from The Brussels Journal ; the author is Chris Gillibrand . Just imagine what would happen if Christians used a Mosque in this way , though to be fair there are all groups using this church . The parish priest mentioned should be ex-communicated ; he has been from my faith .

The Unholy Sleepers of Brussels: Asylum Seekers Desecrate Church

From the desk of Chris Gillibrand on Sat, 2008-04-12 15:05

Asylum seekers desecrate a Catholic church in Brussels as they re-occupy the Church of the Beguinage. This first occured in 2000, when they trashed the place. Now, with the full permission of the parish priest -- this is, after all, the parish whose biggest event in the year is a Multi-Cultural Picnic in the square in front of the Church.

Outside the Church

And inside. When I can find someone in authority, will find out if the Blessed Sacrament is still reserved. In the meantime, sympathisers and asylum seekers turn the nave into a place for chat.

The South Aisle

Banner strung between confessionals which are used for storage.

South aisle from the other direction

The altar of Our Lady of Sorrows.

The Sacred Heart altar

Lifting the blue curtain -- to reveal two women chatting away and the Sacred Heart altar laden with rubbish.

The Welcome Office in the Church -- welcome to asylum seekers but to no-one else.

Another confessional wardrobe

Some screens -- the advert is for a Pispottenfestival.

The Unholy Sleepers of Brussels

On another noticeboard --

The asylum seekers are watched over by The Hand. Incredibly, it is meant to represent the Hidden Hand of Adam Smith's economics. What is this doing in Church?

Another poster -- Become Scandalously Fraternal -- a parody advert for a Church charity which parodies a lottery poster -- Become Scandalously Rich.