On the edge of the Meerdaal Forest, Heverlee Forest, and Egenhoven Forest, near the Minnebron and Zoet Water domain, lies the chapel of Our Lady of Steenbergen, hidden in the greenery. It is a place where people like to pause, walk, or cycle. They also like to go inside to light a candle, reflect, or pray.
On Saturday 11 October, for the second year in a row, we went on a pilgrimage to the chapel, and this time we were especially focused on families with young children.
Around 10 a.m., several parents and their children, accompanied by other pilgrims, left Leuven’s Sint-Kwinten’s Church and headed for Heverlee Forest. Children in and on strollers, children on scooters, children on their parents’ backs—it was all possible during this pilgrimage.
Along the way, we played, talked, and prayed for all the things we are thankful for, for all the things we can pray for. The silence of the forest, the changing colors of the leaves, the smells and sounds of autumn were also greatly appreciated.
When we arrived at the chapel, we were welcomed by Mrs. Emilie Vonckx-Spreutels, who has been the driving force behind this chapel for so many years.
We were able to rest for a while and pray before the Blessed Sacrament. The Lord in our midst: He who went around doing good and blessing the children.
With joyful and grateful hearts, we returned home with the hope that next year even more young families will join this pilgrimage.
