Chaplain struck by 'profound humanity' after Brussels blasts

Friday, Apr. 01, 2016

OXFORD, England (CNS) — A Catholic priest who ministered to survivors of the attacks at Brussels airport said he was struck by the “profound humanity” shown by those caught up in the situation.

“I’ve heard so many stories, including testimonies from those who were 15 yards away when the bombs exploded, and who were blown off their feet and injured,” Father Michel Gaillard, chaplain of the Belgian capital’s Zaventem airport, told Catholic News Service March 24.

Fr. Gaillard said he had been traveling to Zaventem when the bombs exploded, and had helped calm hundreds of passengers taken to a nearby sports hall. Many lost passports and luggage and were desperately seeking friends and relatives, he said.

He added that he had helped counsel numerous Catholics who sought his support, as well as American tourists, students and employees who were at the airport during the March 22 rush-hour blasts. He said Orthodox, Protestant and Jewish airport chaplains also had offered spiritual and pastoral help to those affected. 

“Some people have asked me to pray with them and for them, while others have just needed to talk about what happened to them,” the Catholic chaplain said. “In a world where finance is often considered the most important thing, this event has reminded us of our vulnerability – as well as of the bonds of profound humanity we reveal in showing care and compassion for each other. This is the great lesson I take from what’s happened.”

“We should remember the airport is a large community, all of which has been affected,” he added. “Although people are still in shock, I’m moved by how many have placed themselves at the service of the injured and traumatized.”

Fr. Gaillard has served as a chaplain at the airport for 10 years.