International Candle Lighting Ceremony Celebrated with Symbolism, Unity, and Reflection
The International Candle Lighting Ceremony was held in an atmosphere of profound mystagogy and reflection, bringing together members, leaders, and friends in a powerful expression of unity and shared purpose. The celebration was held in Limassol, the founding city of BPW Cyprus, and was conducted with pride and grandeur.
The event opened with a warm welcome by the President of BPW Limassol Mrs. Maro Chrysanthou who warmly welcomed attendees and distinguished guests, including the President of BPW Cyprus, Mrs Mary Papadopoulou, current and former members of the Central Board, Committee Chairs, past and present Presidents of local clubs, officers, and members, as well as friends and supporters of the organization.
As Mrs Papadopoulou highlighted in her address, The Candle Lighting Ceremony, which is a tradition established in the early 1930s by BPW founder Lena Madesin Phillips, remains one of the most sacred and symbolic moments of the BPW movement worldwide. It transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, uniting women across continents in a shared commitment to professional equality and economic independence.
Each candle lit during the ceremony represented the aspirations, efforts, and achievements of women in every corner of the world. Candles were dedicated to continents, federations, countries, and members, while the tallest candle—symbolizing BPW International—stood as a beacon of hope, peace, and women’s empowerment.
As participants stood together—executives, members, and friends—they formed a living chain of solidarity. In the soft glow of candlelight, they honored the women who paved the way and reaffirmed their commitment to lighting the path for future generations.
In today’s world of ongoing challenges, the ceremony served as a call to action: to invoke hope and to work collectively toward shaping a sustainable future grounded in love, peace, and equality.
The organizers extended their sincere appreciation to the Board of BPW Limassol for their dedicated and constructive collaboration. Special thanks were given to former BPW Cyprus Vice President Mrs. Nitsa Papachristodoulou for her invaluable contribution to the preparation of the evening.
Gratitude was also expressed to Mrs. Elsi for the elegant floral arrangements, to Melissa Candle Workshop for providing the candles, to Mr. Prodromos Tsolias for curating the artistic and entertainment program, and to the Columbia Venue Center for its generous hospitality.
The evening concluded with a symbolic gesture as attendees lit their candles together, sending a message of light, unity, and hope across the world.