Residents of Tienen can participate in the 'Troostweek' from November 9 to 15, 2026, an initiative by the city focused on meeting, recognition, and connection. A comfort moment on November 1 marks the start. For residents with limited mobility, the 'Troosttaxi' (Comfort Taxi) is available from October 26 to 30.
Alderman for social policy Wim Bergé emphasizes the importance of comfort: "Comfort doesn't make grief smaller, but it helps people not to bear it alone. With the Troostweek, we want to create space for encounters, recognition, and connection."
The program begins on Sunday, November 1, with a comfort moment at the main cemetery at 3:00 PM, organized with various life philosophies. It includes poetry, cello music, and a candle ceremony. Participation is free, but it will be canceled in case of bad weather. Access via Pollepelstraat is recommended due to works on Aarschotsesteenweg.
From October 26 to 30, the Troosttaxi, operated by volunteers, offers transport to Tienen's cemeteries for individuals with limited mobility. Reservations can be made at 016 24 76 00 or www.tienen.be/troostweek.
During the Troostweek itself, from November 9 to 15, various activities are scheduled. On Monday, November 9, the film ‘Hemnet’ will be shown at 2:00 PM and 8:15 PM at CC De Kruisboog. Tuesday, November 10, features a comfort walk in Goetsenhoven (starting at 2:00 PM at Goetsenhovenplein) and a lecture ‘Over-living as/with separated parent(s)' by Marijke Umans (7:30 PM at CC De Kruisboog).
Additionally, on Thursday, November 12, there is the performance ‘RauwRouw’ by Katrijn De Cooman/Collectief Elan (8:15 PM, CC De Kruisboog). Friday, November 13, marks the official inauguration of the Troostmuur (Comfort Wall) at the main cemetery at 3:30 PM. Saturday, November 14, includes a book reading ‘Leven na verlies’ (Living after loss) by Vonneke Beeker (2:00 PM, Verbinding in Verlies) and a commemoration of the World Wars (5:00 PM, main cemetery).
The day concludes with a comfort walk through the city center of Tienen (continuous from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, starting at Torekesplein/Grote Markt). Throughout the week, books on comfort will be available for loan at the library, and art objects related to comfort will be exhibited in the Erfgoedsite.
These activities are part of the supra-local cultural project Troost-Brabant, supported by the Flemish government.
