Czech Scouts Bring Bethlehem Light from Linz
- The Flame of Bethlehem, originating from the Church of the nativity in Bethlehem, Palestine, has arrived in Brno, Czech Republic, carried by scouts and volunteers from across Europe.
- This year, a five-member escort brought the flame from Linz to Brno via train, utilizing two lanterns.
- The tradition of sharing the Flame of Bethlehem dates back to 1988, initiated by the Austrian Catholic Scout Association.
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Flame of Peace Arrives in Brno, Czech Republic, Carrying Message of Hope
The Journey of the Bethlehem Flame
The Flame of Bethlehem, originating from the Church of the nativity in Bethlehem, Palestine, has arrived in Brno, Czech Republic, carried by scouts and volunteers from across Europe. This annual tradition symbolizes peace and hope,traveling thru multiple countries before reaching communities for the holiday season. The flame was initially flown to Europe by plane, arriving in Linz, Austria, before being transported to the Czech Republic.
Czech scouts receive the Flame of Bethlehem in Brno. (Image for illustrative purposes only.)
This year, a five-member escort brought the flame from Linz to Brno via train, utilizing two lanterns. A third lantern was delivered by car, according to Jana Berková, who accompanied the light from Austria for the second time. approximately one hundred Czech scouts traveled to Linz from various regions of the country, many making the journey independently.
A Tradition of Unity and Hope
The tradition of sharing the Flame of Bethlehem dates back to 1988, initiated by the Austrian Catholic Scout Association. It has as expanded into a pan-European effort, involving scouts from numerous countries and denominations. The flame represents a shared desire for peace and goodwill during a time often marked by division.
“It’s a gorgeous tradition with a message of hope and peace between people,” Berková stated. “It’s beautiful to see how many people came together so that the light from Bethlehem could come to Europe and spread further. It’s a great experience for us, we meet scouts from many countries.”
welcoming Ceremony and Distribution
A welcoming ceremony will be held on Sunday at the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in Brno, beginning at 4:00 p.m. The Brno youth choir SBM will provide musical accompaniment, and parish vicar Tomáš Zámečník will welcome visitors.However, the flame will not be distributed to the public untill next saturday.
Scouts will spend the following week delivering the flame to individuals and communities across the Czech Republic, bringing the message of peace and hope to homes, churches, and public spaces. The exact distribution routes and schedules will vary by local scout groups.
The Significance of the Flame in a Global Context
In a world often facing conflict and uncertainty, the Flame of Bethlehem serves as a powerful reminder of shared values and the enduring hope for peace. The tradition resonates particularly strongly in regions experiencing political instability or social unrest.The act of carrying the flame across borders underscores the importance of international cooperation and understanding.