Call to ‘abolish the clergy’ ignites controversy in Belgium

A booklet arguing that ‘to abolish clericalism, we must abolish the clergy’ has been criticized by lay Catholics and a bishop.

A booklet arguing that “to abolish clericalism, we must abolish the clergy” has ignited controversy among Belgium’s Catholics.

Following the document’s publication, a petition opposing its thesis gathered more than 600 signatures in 48 hours, according to local media.

The almost 60-page text, entitled “Restore the Church to the People of God: To put an en…