Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
© Vatican Media/Ag.Siciliani
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - A delegation of the Star Singers from Switzerland has concluded their visit to Rome. They represented more than 10,000 children and young people, together with about 2,000 adult volunteers, who are taking part in this traditional work of solidarity.
For over 35 years, Missio Switzerland, the national direction of the Swiss Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS), has organized this initiative under the motto "Children help children", in collaboration with local parishes. The Star Singers go from house to house during the Christmas period until Epiphany, bringing a message of peace and the blessing of the New Year, with the aim of raising funds to support projects for the most needy children in the world.
In addition to the Swiss group, Star Singers from Germany, Austria, Slovakia, South Tyrol and Romania took part, staying in Rome between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The highlight of their visit was the Mass on January 1st with Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica.
The Holy Father offered the young people an unforgettable moment by inviting them to a group photo before the Eucharistic celebration. Dressed in their festive costumes and crowns, the Star Singers played a special role in the liturgy, carrying the gifts to the altar during the offertory.
For Änna, a young participant from the parish of St. Anthony in Basel, this meeting was especially meaningful: "I was not nervous, but delighted that the Pope took the time to speak with us. I will never forget being at his side," she said.
During their stay in Rome, the young people visited the headquarters of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, where they participated in a joint Mass and dinner with members of the Guard.
The young people of Basel also brought their joy to the Swiss Embassy to the Holy See, encouraged the young patients of the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital with their songs and met Cardinal Kurt Koch in his offices. The Cardinal, who is closely linked to his former diocese, thanked the Swiss Star Singers for their commitment to the most disadvantaged children.
Another special moment for the children was crossing the Holy Door, opened at the beginning of the Holy Year, an experience that deeply marked the participants.
In addition to blessing homes in their region and raising funds, which this year will go to help children in Colombia, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Swiss Star Singers brought their message to the Federal Palace on December 16, and on January 5 they will be at the Europark in Rust together with two delegations from France and Germany. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 3/1/2025)
