A new plaque was unveiled in Brussels Cathedral to provide context for stained-glass windows with antisemitic content.
A warm embrace between Archbishop Terlinden and Chief Rabbi Guigui followed the unveiling of the plaque.
Some stained-glass windows in Brussels Cathedral recall an episode said to have taken place in the 14th century. These stained-glass windows depict the desecration of Eucharistic hosts by Jews in Brussels, the “Eucharistic miracle” represented by blood flowing from the stabbed hosts, and Jews being executed at the stake. While some defend the idea of a genuine “Eucharistic miracle”, it is disputed by scientific historians.
At the start of the ceremony, held in Brussels Cathedral, Robert Godding gave a lecture on this “embarrassing miracle.”
Nevertheless, the episode left its mark. It is illustrated in the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, which are clearly antisemitic in character. For a long time, it was commemorated in the streets of Brussels through processions.
In the 1970s, a first plaque was installed inside the cathedral, through which the diocesan authorities of Mechelen-Brussels, “after having taken note of historical research on the subject,” drew readers’ attention to “the biased nature of the accusations [against the Jews accused of the desecration] and to the legendary presentation of the ‘miracle’.”
The current Archbishop, Luc Terlinden, clearly expressed his desire to ask for forgiveness. “Our act of repentance is sincere. It is also accompanied by a purification of memory. I stress here that this must help us, as Catholics, to seek the truth about our own practices.”
In his speech, Archbishop Terlinden spoke of the fraternity, and even friendship, that unite Catholics and Jews. “Our gaze also turns towards the future, because the fraternity between Jews and Christians is called to grow even further, in the desire to build peace among peoples, with respect for beliefs and convictions.” And again: “Today, gratitude and hope fill our hearts, as when old brothers reconcile after many years. Thank you all warmly!”
