On December 16, 2023, before at the evening service, the traditional event of the transfer of the Peace Light of Bethlehem took place at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Vinnytsia. This fire, which was lit at the birthplace of the Lord Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, is being passed around the world these days with wishes of peace, harmony and understanding.
Representatives of the Vinnytsia branch of the Ukrainian scouting organization Plast brought the symbol of unity to the Cathedral. The young people sang a song that is traditionally performed during the transfer of the fire and told about their mission as part of an international scouting event that takes place every year on Christmas Eve.
After receiving the Bethlehem Fire, Metropolitan Symeon of Vinnytsia and Bar thanked the Vinnytsia scouts and noted that this fire, which was lit at the birthplace of the Savior, is a symbol of peace between God and people and people among themselves, which was brought by the Lord Jesus Christ. At the same time, this fire and its light and warmth, according to the Archpastor, is a symbol of what people should be like: hot in faith, warm in love and good deeds, in order to meet the Born Savior in their hearts with dignity. "After all, the Nativity of Christ is not only a historical event that took place more than two thousand years ago in Bethlehem, but the Lord is born again and again in the hearts of those who love Him," the Metropolitan emphasized.
The Bethlehem Fire will be burning in the lamps throughout the Christmas season. Everyone will be able to take this fire and bring it to their homes.
REFERENCE
The Bethlehem Peace Light is an international scouting event that takes place every year on Christmas Eve. The main goal is to spread the symbolic fire from the birthplace of Jesus Christ to all those who need it. The fire is a symbol of good deeds and support.
The tradition of passing the fire was invented by Austrian scouts to remind society of the true meaning of Christmas. It is a time to think about those who need our help. Especially about those who will not celebrate Christmas with their families due to illness, life circumstances or defending ми our country at the front. The Peace Light is a symbol of harmony, peace, love for people and the world. It is a symbol of understanding in society.
Press service of the Diocese of Vinnytsia and Bar of the UOC (OCU)
