EUROPE/SWITZERLAND - The Star Singers: From Sattel to the Federal Palace, “Ambassadors” of Peace and Solidarity

Bern (Agenzia Fides) – Last Wednesday, a delegation of 23 Star Singers from Sattel filled the Dome Hall of the Federal Palace in Bern with carols and joy. The young Star Singers brought their blessing for the new year, evoking the values of peace, community, and solidarity.
Every year, in many European countries, at different times and in various forms, this missionary initiative linked to the Christmas season takes place, which Fides will be following in the coming weeks. The young Star Singers collect donations to support projects for other children in need, in accordance with the motto of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood: “Children help children.” In particular, the initiative began throughout Switzerland in 1989, and currently nearly 10,000 children and teenagers walk the streets, going from house to house, carrying along their carols and the Christmas message, a special blessing formula: "C+M+B" (Christus Mansionem Benedicat – "May Christ bless this house"). The delegation of the Swiss Singers was received at the Federal Palace by the President of the National Council, Pierre-André Page, and the President of the Council of States, Stefan Engler. "I too was a Star Singer, and I am very happy that this beautiful tradition continues today here at the Federal Palace," declared the President of the Council of States. President Page also said he was deeply moved: "As President of the National Council, I will carry this greeting of peace with me on my travels next year and share it with everyone I meet." The visit to the Federal Palace marked the official start of the Star Singers Action 2026, whose theme this year is "School Instead of factory." The initiative focuses on projects aimed at combating the scourge of exploited child labor and getting children back into school, with a particular emphasis on Bangladesh.
For the children of Sattel Primary School, the visit to the Federal Palace was an extraordinary experience. "We want to tell others about the action and bring them joy," said Michelle. Her friend Celina added, "I hope all children have enough to eat and can go to school." (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 20/12/2026)

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