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Peace Light of Bethlehem Arrives at Parliament in Budapest

• 18 Dec 2024 3:52 PM
• Hungary Today

The Peace Light, lit in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, arrived to Budapest’s Parliament on Monday, brought by a delegation of Hungarian scouts. The flame is a symbol of peace and love, and its arrival marks a significant moment in the Advent season.

At the event held in front of the Delegation Hall, János Latorcai, the KDNP Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, emphasized the importance of the Advent period as a time for preparation and expectation. He noted that the flame represents a message of love, urging people to “prepare our hearts and open our souls to the miracle of the coming of Jesus Christ.”

Mr. Latorcai also reflected on the historic Christmas ceasefire of 110 years ago during the First World War, wondering whether today’s soldiers, fighting in wars across the globe, might experience even a single day of peace.

He prayed for divine intervention, hoping for an end to the suffering caused by conflict.

The flame, he said, is not just a symbol but a beacon of true love and peace that can transcend borders and conflicts.

Márta Mátrai, the First Officer of the National Assembly, also participated in the ceremony, recalling a poem by Transylvanian Hungarian poet Sándor Reményik. She wished a blessed holiday to all those present, quoting the poem’s message of hope. Zoltán Bóna, the Reformed pastor of Dunavarsány (near Budapest), blessed the flame during a festive mass, adding a spiritual dimension to the occasion.

The flame has its roots in the Austrian television charity program Licht ins Dunkel (Light into Darkness), which began in 1986. It has been carried from Bethlehem to Austria annually, and since then, scout delegations from various countries, including Hungary, have taken part in its journey.

The Hungarian Scouts Association became involved shortly after the movement’s re-establishment in the 1990s, and since then, the flame has been ceremonially distributed across Hungary, with the Parliament building being a key destination.

This tradition of bringing the Peace Light to Hungary’s Parliament is a symbol of hope and peace, a reminder of the importance of unity, love, and faith during the Advent season.

The event is organized in an ecumenical spirit, with both Catholic and Protestant spiritual movements playing a key role in its annual observance.

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• Peace Light of Bethlehem Parliament

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