A multitude of stars illuminated the night sky in Koblenz
In the heart of Koblenz, Germany, the old town's Josef-Görres-Platz was illuminated by a sea of lights, symbolising the "A Million Stars" solidarity action organised by Caritas Koblenz. This annual event, held for the 17th time, aims to raise awareness and support for homeless people locally and for Caritas International's projects abroad, including those in Colombia.
The event was a place of encounter and community, of humanity and solidarity. Visitors could place a candle for a voluntary donation, and live music performances by Anna Theisen, Lukas Otte, and Daniel Ferber added to the emotional and special atmosphere on Görres-Platz.
Caritas director Victoria Müller-Ensel emphasised the importance of such events, stating, "We live in a time when humanity and social cohesion are more important than ever."
The Koblenzer Guggemusik band made a surprise visit, contributing to the event's conclusion with live music.
The funds raised during the event totalled €4,762, with the net proceeds benefiting the homeless assistance of the Caritas Association of Koblenz and a support project of Caritas International for young people with disabilities in Colombia.
Caritas Internationalis, a major Catholic humanitarian and development organisation, underpins this event. Its global confederation, coordinated from Vatican City, works worldwide to address poverty and social injustice, supporting projects like those in Colombia aimed at improving living conditions and providing vital services to vulnerable populations.
By connecting local solidarity actions in Koblenz with international development work in Colombia, the initiative exemplifies a global approach to charity rooted in Catholic social teaching, emphasising compassion and fraternity. This networked support enhances both immediate relief efforts for homeless people in Germany and longer-term development and humanitarian responses in Colombia.
This year's "A Million Stars" solidarity action was part of a larger initiative, with Caritas organisations holding similar events in 80 cities across Germany. The presence of Caritas staff from Colombia, currently on an exchange trip with experts in Germany, further underscored the global nature of this charity work.
[1] Caritas Internationalis, "Who we are and what we do", https://www.caritas.org/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/ [2] Caritas Koblenz, "A Million Stars in Koblenz", https://www.caritas-koblenz.de/million-stars-in-koblenz/
In the spirit of global compassion and fraternity, the "A Million Stars" solidarity action in Koblenz extends beyond home-and-garden boundaries, supporting not only local homeless assistance but also sustainable-living initiatives for young people with disabilities in Colombia. This other illuminated event, part of a larger network of Caritas actions in Germany, underlines the international reach of Caritas International's humanitarian efforts.
