Summary
In 2026, adult baptisms in Belgium are expected to increase significantly, marking a return to an “adult baptism boom” following a steady rise since 2016. The Catholic Church reported that the number of adults seeking baptism rose from 534 in 2025 to 689 in 2026, almost tripling the figure from three years prior. This growth is particularly notable given Belgium’s generally secularized status and a decline in infant baptisms over recent decades. The surge can be attributed partly to Francophone culture, as evidenced by high numbers of adult baptisms in predominantly French-speaking dioceses like Liège, Namur, and Tournai. In contrast, Flemish-speaking areas such as Antwerp and Ghent also experienced notable growth in adult baptism rates. This pattern suggests a shift from cultural Christianity towards conviction-driven faith among both newcomers and returnees to the Church. Catholic leaders have expressed joy over this development, noting that it complements rather than replaces the decline in infant baptisms, indicating a new dynamic within Belgium’s religious landscape.
Key Topics
Belgium, Catholic Church, Baptism boom
