King Baudouin of Belgium: His beatification process officially begins

The Vatican has officially begun the process of beatification and canonization of Baldwin, the fifth king of the Belgians, remembered for having preferred to abdicate the throne rather than sign the legalization of abortion in his country.

In a statement issued on December 21, the Vatican reported that the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has begun the process following the usual procedures. “In compliance with the provisions, the Dicastery has begun the planned process, constituting the regular Historical Commission on December 17, 2024.”

“This commission is made up of distinguished experts in archival research and the history of Belgium, with the aim of collecting and evaluating documentation relating to King Baudouin,” the statement added.

Pope Francis had announced the decision to start this process during his visit to Belgium in September of this year.

Baldwin’s reign lasted more than 40 years (1951-1993), witnessing a Belgium transformed by secularism and social unrest. Despite the challenges, Baudouin stood out for his strong Catholic faith and commitment to public service.

In 1960, he married Princess Fabiola of Mora y Aragón, a devout Catholic like him. Although the couple had no children due to Fabiola’s repeated miscarriages, the couple found comfort and strength in their faith, attending the Eucharist daily and actively promoting the Catholic charismatic movement.

On April 3, 1990, King Baudouin refused to sign a law decriminalizing abortion in Belgium, and was therefore removed from the throne with his consent. However, due to his enormous popularity, Parliament returned the crown to him just 36 hours later, on April 5.

Baudouin died on July 31, 1993 at the age of 63. He was remembered as a humble leader and a defender of the most vulnerable, especially unborn children. Saint John Paul II highlighted his example as a “great promoter of the rights of human conscience” and respect for life.

The beatification process, which now formally begins, requires rigorous research into his life, virtues and possible miracles attributed to his intercession. The Historical Commission will have a key role in this initial stage. According to the Dicastery, the commission will be made up of “illustrious experts” who will work to ensure that all relevant documentation is rigorously analyzed.