Jozef De Vroey, a priest of today

Gasthuiskapel. Jozef De Vroey seems destined to become a priest due to the tragic events of 1914. He himself says about this during an interview for the Gazet van Antwerpen on March 14, 1996: “Three escapees told me that my father urged his fellow prisoners to pray. In that, I found the strength to become a priest?” On May 23, 1937, he is ordained as a priest. The ecclesiastical authority sees in him a teacher and only after his pedagogical career, starting in 1975, does he devote himself to pastoral work. He becomes chaplain of the then guesthouse. Many believers come to his Mass celebrations in the chapel. His clear and contemporary sermons, which always connect with daily events, are particularly appreciated. Children enjoy a playful piece of their own celebration in the sacristy.

In his work, the monumental Kyriale is an authentic connection between his priesthood and his condemnation of Nazism. The plate with the text “Whoever sings well, prays double” again states that simply doing good in everyday life is a way to heaven.

Jan Rymenams