Scouts and Guides light way for peace
Oban Scouts and Guides have joined their counterparts across the world in sending a message of peace around the globe.
Members of both groups, along with family and friends, welcomed the Peace Light from Bethlehem to St Columba’s Cathedral on Friday December 20 where it will burn brightly until 12th Night, Sunday January 5.
Originating from the Eternal Flame in Bethlehem, the International Peace Light initiative was launched by the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation in 1984 when a child travelled to the birthplace of Christ and collected a flame to take back to Austria.
Sent from the Austrian Scouts and Guides, the flame is now used throughout
Europe and travelling on to North America, Canada and Mexico.
The ‘eternal flame’ was brought to St Columba’s Cathedral from Glasgow by outgoing First Argyll Scouts regional leader Jeff Anderson and from there, members of the public lit candles and took them home to spread the flame throughout the area.
‘The chain of light symbolises the removal of barriers between nations and people by overcoming the darkness caused by hate,’ said Mr Anderson.
‘Argyll Scouts have really embraced this tradition which also promotes frankness, warmth and family.’
Father James MacNeil gave readings at the ceremony, while Scout leader Jack Anderson provided music to accompany the hymns.
At the end of the service members of the congregation received a Jelly Baby or ‘Peace Baby’ as they were known at the end of the First World War.