Poland Celebrates Peace and Hope: A Unique Event at the Catholic University of Lublin
Poland recently hosted an extraordinary event titled “In the Glow of the Bethlehem Light of Peace and of the Lights of Hanukkah. Message of Peace and Hope from the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin”. The event brought together Bishop Mieczysław Cisło, Cantor Symcha Keller from the Jewish community, and numerous residents of Lublin. Together, they reflected on the words of Pope Francis, who extended his heartfelt wishes of peace and fraternity in honor of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights.
“May the light of Bethlehem and the light of Hanukkah shine brightly together, symbolizing the Catholic-Jewish dialogue, inspired by our patron and professor, St. John Paul II,” remarked the Rector of the Catholic University of Lublin, Fr. Prof. Mirosław Kalinowski, in a poignant letter commemorating the event. He echoed Pope Francis’ sentiments and expressed hope for a brighter future in 2025.
KULHope and Dialogue
The event drew representatives from the Catholic Church, the Jewish community, faculty and staff of the Catholic University of Lublin, media personnel, and local residents to the Main Building of the university. Organized by the Abraham J. Heschel Centre for Catholic-Jewish Relations, the event commenced with a prayer by Bishop Mieczysław Cisło, highlighting the theme of hope in the Catholic Church’s ongoing Jubilee Year.
Amidst hymns sung by Neocatechumenal and Jewish cantors, the event fostered unity and collaboration between two diverse yet interconnected communities in Lublin.
Shared Values
Fr. Dr. Paweł Rytel-Adrianik, director of the Heschel Centre, underscored the symbolic significance of merging the Bethlehem Light of Peace with Hanukkah’s light, emphasizing shared values of peace, hope, and cooperation between Jews and Christians. This fusion of traditions symbolized the cherished Christian-Jewish dialogue advocated by St. John Paul II.
KULInternational Aspect
Cardinal Kurt Koch, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, extended his greetings to the event participants, highlighting the global significance of the Catholic-Jewish dialogue.
Prof. Susanna Heschel, daughter of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, shared a touching message, emphasizing the spiritual significance of Hanukkah and the importance of faith renewal. She reflected on the miracle of Hanukkah and the profound connection to God’s presence in our lives.
The Genesis of Hanukkah
Hanukkah, meaning “dedication or consecration,” commemorates a miraculous event in Jewish history. The victory of the Jews over the Greeks in the second century BC led to the rededication of the Jerusalem Temple, symbolized by the burning of the menorah for eight days with only a small amount of oil. This celebration, marked by lighting candles on a hanukkiah, signifies joy, family, and faith.
The Abraham J. Heschel Centre for Catholic-Jewish Relations at the Catholic University of Lublin continues to promote dialogue and understanding between different faith communities at local, national, and international levels. Inspired by the legacy of Abraham J. Heschel, the Centre remains committed to fostering unity and collaboration among diverse religious traditions.
KUL
