Fackel run of hope: Friedberg shines for Solferino!

Fackel run of hope: Friedberg shines for Solferino!

The anticipation for a very special occasion grows: On Monday, June 16, 2023, the Fiaccolata, an international torch run, will take place for the first time in the Aichach-Friedberg district. This event marks an important step because it combines local participants with a global commemoration for the origins of the Red Cross and Red Mountain Movement. The torchy run starts at 12.30 p.m. at the BRK clothing shop "attractive" at Ludwigstraße 2 in Friedberg. In a solemn act, the torch is handed over by Rotkreuz colleagues from Fürth, accompanied by a greeting from the Vice President of the Bavarian Red Cross, Brigitte Meyer.

A highlight of the day will be the transfer of the torch from the Aichach-Friedberg participants to BRK day care at Sparkassenplatz. From there, the torch gets creative on the way to Italy, among other things by boat, high or with the quad. The torch run is organized as a relay race, in which the "light of hope and humanity" is passed on to finally arrive in Solferino, northern Italy on June 24th

historical background

June 24th has a very special meaning: On this day in 1859, Henry Dunant was eyewitness to the Battle of Solferino, which is considered the birth of the Red Cross. From then on, Dunant campaigned for medical care wounded and initiated assistance in the nearby city of Castiglione Delle Stiviere. In order to commemorate this historic event, the torchlight procession of the Italian Red Cross has been carried out worldwide since 1992. Berlin recently reported on the participation of the German Red Cross in this important tradition to honor the roots and the spirit of the movement .

not only in Germany, but also in Solferino itself, the Fiaccolata attracts impressive amounts of participants year after year. In 2018, more than 10,000 Red Cross helpers from over 60 countries were there to celebrate this important day of remembrance. The event has developed over the years and even adapted to Covid-19-Pandemie, so that digital formats were used to keep the spirit of solidarity alive Roter-kreis.de .

a light of hope

The Fiaccolata not only represses the historical meaning of the Red Cross, it also symbolizes solidarity and humanity across borders. The torch that travels through Germany was launched in 2021 to include all Rotkreuzler who cannot personally participate in the Fiaccolata. Your journey through different countries and cities shows the tireless efforts of the helpers and the unshakable light of hope that shines in these challenging times.

We all invite you to participate in this unique event and celebrate the values of the Red Cross. Be there when the light of hope is shone by Friedberg and sent on the trip to Italy. Together we set a sign of humanity and charity!