Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Friburg (Agenzia Fides) – On the evening of Saturday, November 14, in 54 cities throughout Germany, a sea of candles were lit for the initiative entitled “A Million Stars.” Caritas Germany, accepting the invitation of Caritas International, thus wanted to give a sign of solidarity with the marginalized people of society, stand up for their dignity, and for justice in Germany and around the world.
"Each candle represents a person in a difficult situation and also a sign of hope," said Peter Neher, President of Caritas Germany, in a note sent to Fides. "With this symbol, we also want to foster a relationship of respect among us... Regardless of whether it is a child who collects garbage in Brazil or a homeless person in Germany, every person deserves respect."
With funds raised through this campaign, "Caritas International" this year will suppot a project for children who collect garbage in Brazil. These children and their parents live off what others throw away. Most of them can not attend school, and even in slums where they live are marginalized. Caritas International wants to give these children a better life, a life of dignity, through material aid but also through greater recognition, "says Oliver Müller, Director of Caritas International. Caritas International, as an agency for international aid from Caritas Germany, is a member of Caritas Internationalis, which is formed by 162 national agencies. (MS) (Agenzia Fides 16/11/2009)
