[B] In Belgium, Empty Churches Are Being Turned into Businesses

LET'S UNLOCK WORDS AND PHRASES 🔐

repurpose

[ ree-'pur-puhs ]

verb

- to adapt or use something, especially a building or space, for a different purpose or function than its original one

We can repurpose this cardboard box as a storage container for toys.

devoid

[ dih-'void ]

adjective

- completely lacking or empty of something

The room was devoid of any furniture.

serene

[ suh-'reen ]

adjective

- calm, peaceful, and undisturbed

The lake looked serene.

contemplative

[ kuhn-'tem-pluh-tiv]

adjective

- deeply thoughtful and reflective

He sat in a contemplative mood.

maniak

[ 'mey-nee-ak ]

noun

- term used to describe an enthusiastic or dedicated fan or follower of a particular activity or hobby

The music festival attracted thousands of maniaks, eager to immerse themselves in the electrifying atmosphere and performances.

LET'S READ! 📖

Direction: Read the passage aloud. Then, read it silently.

Let's Read

COMPREHENSION CHECK 🧠 A. Directions: Identify if the statements are TRUE of FALSE. If the statement is FALSE, provide the correct answer.

COMPREHENSION CHECK

Many churches in Europe are facing emptiness, leading to a trend of repurposing them into various facilities.
Supporters of church repurposing believe it helps save costs on assistance.
Critics of church repurposing express ethical concerns about transforming sacred spaces.
In Flanders, Belgium, some cathedrals have attendees despite the trend of emptiness.
In 2018, 55% of people raised as Christians in Belgium still identified as such, and 10% attended church regularly.

B. Direction: Answer the following questions based on the article.

What is the current trend regarding empty churches across Europe?
What do supporters of church repurposing argue?
What are the concerns raised by critics about repurposing churches?
According to the PEW research study in 2018, what percentage of those raised as Christians in Belgium still identified as such and attended church regularly?
What are the main considerations mentioned in the text when it comes to repurposing empty churches?

C. Direction: Match the words in column A with their synonyms in column B.

A	B
1. decline	a. complicated
2. preserve	b. protect
3. complex	c. decrease
4. emptiness	d. apparent
5. evident	e. vacancy