Holy Trinity (Capuchin Church)

Source corner with baptismal spring

Artistically realized by father JJ Palliparambil OFM-Cap., resident artist in the monastery. The baptismal spring bubbles throughout the day and is supported by the images of the four evangelists, because we are baptized in the name of Him whose word they have written. The oval wall is a reference to John 1, 4-5, referring to life being the light of all people. This abstract-realistic sacred art dates from January 2023. One can find more information about this in the church itself.

Franciscan service altar and 2 ambos

This sculpted altar was originally a communion rail from the Franciscan church in Antwerp. Father Geroen Debruycker later transformed it into an altar for the Franciscan church of Sint Truiden. After that church closed in 2020, it was moved to Meersel Dreef. The altar shows scenes from the life of Francis of Assisi, including the approval of the order, and the two ambos depict two Franciscan saints.

Way of the Cross

The Way of the Cross, painted by brother Max of the Brothers of Charity. Very unique as there are no other historical figures to be seen on it except for Mother Mary and Jesus. Brother Max painted this Way of the Cross for the former Capuchin Monastery of the village of Boom, and so the people that one can see on the paintings are residents from Boom in contemporary costume.  The whole decorates the church and calls for stillness.

St. Francis with Birds

Dutch-American artist Frederick Franck created the original design now in New York. Replicas exist in ’s Hertogenbosch, Megen and Amsterdam. The version here, made with permission from the Franck family and produced by Sprangers welding works in Hoogstraten, is entirely metal. Placed on the church square, the statue welcomes pilgrims, churchgoers, retreatants and other visitors.

St. Mary’s Park - The labyrinth

The sacred domain extends beyond the church. Opposite it lies St. Mary’s Park, and in the far left corner stands the Franciscan labyrinth. In summer it becomes a natural artwork. Its size matches the Chartres cathedral labyrinth, formed with flowers and plants reflecting the colors praised by Saint Francis. Walking through it, visitors encounter questions inspired by Saint Clare’s letter to Saint Agnes of Bohemia.

St. Mary’s Park - The Lourdes Grotto

St. Mary’s Park dates to 1686, and its Lourdes Grotto, built in 1895 with sturdy boulders including one from Lourdes, forms part of a green open air cathedral. It was created after Provincial Father Jan Baptist Rutten vowed to build a sanctuary to Mary if they survived a violent storm at sea. They did, but political concerns led to building it in Belgium instead. The grotto soon became a remarkable religious attraction.

Download the plan of the remarkable elements