Night Vigil 2022

17th edition of the NIGHT VIGIL on June 26, 2022

Together, let us carry the torch of hope to support the victims of torture!

As has been the practice every year for the past 17 years, the Night of the Vigil will bring together Christians – Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox – sympathizers, of all ages, as well as those who say NO to torture and are concerned about the protection of human rights!

Organized by ACAT-France, this ecumenical event will take place in France and internationally. The theme chosen this year is: Discerning the truth; finding the path (John 14.6).

It is both within the context of ACAT-France’s mission, as well as that of the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (June 26), that more than 160 victims have been supported during this event since 2005. In what way? By praying, sending messages and personalized letters to each of the victims (more than 4,000 in 2021), or simply by lighting a candle directly on the Night of Vigil website : www.nuitdesveilleurs.fr/en 

This chain of fraternity also aims at raising awareness about the violation of human rights through the story behind each life, and praying for them by using the resources of the site, which are updated every year according to the theme.

How to take part in the Night of Vigil?

Until 2019, Christians were invited to keep watch during events organized near their homes: night of prayer, fire vigils, ecumenical celebrations, concerts, lantern processions… In 2020, it was necessary to adapt to respect the barrier measures imposed by the health crisis. The website at the time proposed spiritual resources, songs and psalms, the case of victims to support and the follow-up of victims focused on during the previous year. In addition, there was the added possibility of lighting a virtual candle, making donations via a pledge and listing any moment of personal recollection, with family or close friends, to join in with them in thought, on the phone, from a distance…

This year we will be able to physically meet again, but the site continues to offer spiritual resources. A new feature is a downloadable booklet offering an example of an ecumenical celebration on the French website.

Whatever the form this year’s vigil might take wherever you are, the important thing is to rally around the victims of torture or abuse, in the same spirit of solidarity.

Join us to keep the torch of Hope aflame and thriving!