The Peace Light of Bethlehem, a symbol of hope, unity, and love, has once again arrived in Poznań, bringing warmth and light to the city during the Christmas season. This timeless tradition, carried forward by scouts from the Polish Scouting Association (Związek Harcerstwa Polskiego, ZHP), connects people across borders and cultures. Originating in the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the flame travels thousands of kilometres, spreading a powerful message of peace and compassion wherever it goes.
A Cherished Tradition Shines Bright Again
The Peace Light of Bethlehem has once again arrived in Poznań, carrying a message of hope, unity, and compassion. On Monday, 16th December, scouts from the Greater Poland division of Polish Scouting Association ceremoniously handed over the flame to residents during a special mass at 6:30 p.m. in Poznań Fara Church. Among those present was Mariusz Wiśniewski, Deputy Mayor of Poznań, who emphasised the profound significance of the event.
This light, which has arrived in the capital of Greater Poland today, symbolises fraternity, unity, love, and warmth. I am glad that this tradition has been nurtured and strengthened over the years. This flame carries tremendous power, which becomes even more important in our current times. I wish everyone a joyful and peaceful Christmas. May this flame bring hope and strength to all, especially those who are lonely or in need of support.
said Wiśniewski.
The Journey of the Peace Light of Bethlehem
The Peace Light of Bethlehem is a symbolic flame with a deeply meaningful history. It originates in the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, where Christians believe Jesus Christ was born. There, an eternal flame burns, and each year, a single candle is lit from it. Scouts then carry this flame in a global relay, spreading its message of peace across nations and continents.
In 1986, the initiative began in Austria as part of Christmas charitable efforts. The flame is first brought to Vienna, where representatives of scout organisations from across Europe gather to receive it. Among them are members of the Polish Scouting Association (ZHP), who ensure its distribution across Poland.
This year’s theme, “Love in Action”, inspires individuals to express their compassion through deeds rather than words alone. The Polish scouts’ dedication to this principle was particularly visible in 2024, when they responded to a devastating flood in Poland, offering aid, support, and a helping hand to affected communities.
What is ZHP? A Movement of Service and Brotherhood
The Polish Scouting Association (ZHP) is the largest scouting organisation in Poland, with a history dating back to 1918. As part of the international scouting movement, ZHP embodies values of service, leadership, and unity. Its members, harcerki (female scouts) and harcerze (male scouts), are taught to serve their communities, support those in need, and strive to make the world a better place.
The Peace Light of Bethlehem is one of ZHP’s most significant annual initiatives. Since 1991, Polish scouts have received the flame from their Slovak counterparts and passed it on throughout Poland and beyond. The light is distributed not only among scout units but also to parishes, schools, hospitals, government offices, and homes, ensuring its message of peace reaches everyone.
In Poznań, scouts work tirelessly to ensure the flame reaches every corner of the city, sharing its warmth and hope during the Christmas season. An interactive map is also available online, allowing residents to locate the nearest places to receive the light and light their own candles.
A Flame That Unites the World
The Peace Light of Bethlehem is a unique symbol of unity that transcends political, cultural, and geographical boundaries. Though the Grotto of the Nativity is located in Bethlehem, a city long marked by conflict, the flame itself has never failed to make its journey. Even in challenging times, it represents the possibility of peace and reconciliation.
This year, the flame began its journey in Christkindl, Austria, due to logistical challenges preventing direct transportation from Bethlehem. Despite this, its symbolic power remains unchanged. Lit in the Grotto in 2023 by 12-year-old Pillar Jarayseh, the flame was carefully preserved by Austrian scouts until 2024, when it was passed on to nine-year-old Matthias Secklehner to begin its journey anew.
The 2024 Motto: “Love in Action”
The theme “Love in Action” reflects the importance of demonstrating love through tangible deeds, both in everyday moments and times of crisis. This year, Polish scouts showed the true meaning of this motto when catastrophic floods struck the country. The scouts organised collections of essential supplies, assisted with evacuations, and helped clean up affected areas, proving that love is best expressed through action.
Love in Action’ is about more than just words; it is a way of life. Scouts embody the values of solidarity, service, and compassion, bringing hope to those who need it most.
said Joanna Stefańska.
Whether through supporting flood victims or sharing the Peace Light of Bethlehem, scouts demonstrate that even small acts of kindness can make a profound impact. Everyday gestures—like helping a neighbour, showing gratitude, or offering support—are just as meaningful as larger actions.
A Light of Hope for Poznań
The Peace Light of Bethlehem is more than a flame—it is a reminder of the power of unity, love, and peace. As it spreads across Poznań and beyond, it brings light to those who need it most, offering hope during the Christmas season. The scouts’ dedication to sharing this flame reflects their commitment to building a more compassionate and connected world.
This year, as Poznań residents light their candles from the Peace Light, they become part of a global tradition that has endured for nearly 40 years. It is a tradition that reminds us all: love is strongest when it is put into action.
