Nos événements

The Mijlstraat parish was officially recognized on April 23, 1894, with Saint Francis de Sales as its patron. Local fundraising led to a temporary church, and in 1898 architects Edward Careels and Van de Sande designed the new building, completed in 1903 and consecrated in 1904. The neo Gothic brick church still stands as a symbol of 19th century growth.

After its consecration, the church received new furnishings. In 1904, Jan Gerrits created the high altar and two side altars. A pulpit (later turned into an altar), confessionals, and a communion rail followed. A Stevens organ was added in 1906, and Charles Beyaert’s Stations of the Cross in 1908. War damage later required repairs and modernization in 1968.

Since 2019, the church has been an “open house.” Still consecrated, it is now used in contemporary ways. Mass on Holy Saturday and Christmas Eve takes place in the “Eucharist room.” The movable altar allows the podium to serve for concerts, and behind it is a meditation room used several mornings a week. The space also hosts baptisms, weddings, intimate funerals, and monthly spiritual concerts or lectures.

The church and rectory form the heart of the rural Mijlstraat neighborhood, surrounded by early 20th century houses, historic farmsteads, and post 1950 villas. Heritage sites include the barn at number 31, a former 1903 inn at number 296, and a 1907 house linked to the Fort of Koningshooikt. The brick church, with its slate roofs, tower, and rose window, remains a striking landmark.

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