Tonight, the light that more than two thousand years ago first came to rest upon Bethlehem to illuminate the world, will shine once again. It is a fragile and silent light, yet one capable of piercing the darkness of fear, injustice and violence, reminding us that hope often springs from the humblest places.

Every year, the flame that burns in the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem is used to light a lamp that is then carried across the world, spreading the joy of Christ’s birth. Thousands of believers gather around the Light of Bethlehem, praying together for a Christmas in which peace may reign above all — in the world and in our hearts.

On 10 December, this light also reached Brussels, carried by the Scouts. The Peace Light of Bethlehem event, organised by Pax Christi International, CIDSE, Les Scouts and the Chapel for Europe, brought together many Christians from across the city. Gathering first in Parc Léopold, the procession then made its way to the Chapel for Europe, where, accompanied by music and prayer, people lit their candles and prayed for a just and disarmed peace.

After the reflection led by Fr Bernd Guenther, the assembly lit their candles, spreading the Light of Bethlehem. At the end of the moment of prayer, the Scouts read a prayer prepared by the Scout community of Bethlehem.

In a time marked by conflict and division, this small flame reminds us that peace does not arise from the noise of weapons, but from hearts willing to be illuminated. Carrying this light with us is a daily commitment: to protect it, to share it, and to transform it into concrete acts of nonviolence and reconciliation. May its glow accompany us towards the full joy of Christmas, making us witnesses to a humble, resilient and disarmed peace.