Vienna, Austria — From December 13 to 15, 2024, Plast scouts from across Europe and Australia gathered in Vienna for an МПЗ (inter-regional meeting) to mark the annual transfer of the Bethlehem Peace Light. This meaningful tradition brought together dozens of participants united by a shared commitment to spreading peace and hope.
The highlight of the event occurred on Saturday, December 14, when the official ceremony for the transfer of the Bethlehem Peace Light took place. During the event, scouts from around the world, including a delegation from Ukraine, received the symbolic Light.
For the plastuny, this year’s event carried particular significance. They will carry the Light not only to homes and churches but also to Ukraine’s military personnel, who continue to defend their homeland amidst the full-scale Russian invasion. The Peace Light serves as a profound symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring hope for victory and peace.
Additionally, during the event, CEO Plast Australia pl. sen. Chrestyna Kmetj presented Starlink devices to Rostyslav Dobosh, representing Plast Ukraine, as part of the HPB Humanitarian Aid Program. This initiative aims to support Plastuny defenders.
Additionally, podruha Chrestyna handed over Christmas cards from UPN and UPY for Plastuny defenders. These cards, donated by Debbie Daks and handed to Nastia Chervinska and Ksenya Baluc (referents for UPN & UPY for Plast UA), carried heartfelt wishes for the holiday season. The presentation took place during the vatra of МПЗ in Vienna, where pl. sen. Chrestyna Kmetj shared a brief discussion on Plast in Australia.
On Sunday, the group participated in two services as part of a day of prayer for peace. The first service was held with the Ukrainian community at the Church of St. Barbara, followed by a second mass at the Jesuit Church in Vienna. During both services, Plast Ukrainian Scouts shared the Bethlehem Light of Peace, further spreading its message of unity and hope.
The three-day international Plast event concluded with new friendships forged, a wonderful program for all ages, and vigorous discussions on future initiatives. Participants left inspired, looking forward to future gatherings.
Special thanks to PLAST – Ukrainischer Pfadfinderbund in Österreich, Polina Abakumova, and the leadership team for their warm welcome and efforts in organizing this remarkable annual Plast program.
As attendees travelled home, they carried with them the symbol of peace and hope. Plastuny around Australia will continue to share the Bethlehem Peace Light in the lead-up to Christmas, bringing its spark of peace and hope to communities far and wide during these turbulent times.
