An unusual composition in the center of Warsaw united three nations. Belarusians raised money for their figure themselves
Social media users noticed an unusual sculptural composition with symbols of three countries — Poland, Belarus, and Ukraine — near one of the Catholic churches in the center of Warsaw. Those who were not familiar with the context did not understand the meaning of the installation, with some expressing doubt as to which country one of the figures symbolized — Belarus or Lithuania? The Katolik.life publication learned about the new composition and revealed details about it.
This is about a Christmas nativity scene, which was supplemented this year with figures of the Three Kings and installed near the Church of St. Alexander on Three Crosses Square. This is the 'Christmas Nativity Scene of Three Nations,' which can be seen near the church until February 2nd, inclusive.
This year, the idea emerged to make the nativity scene international. The new figures of the Three Kings indeed symbolize Poland, Belarus, and Ukraine, bringing their gifts to the Child Jesus.
Before the blessing of the figures, a joint Mass of Poles, Belarusians, and Ukrainians took place in the church. The service, with the participation of the pastor of Belarusian Catholics in Warsaw, Father Vyacheslav Barok, was celebrated in Polish with elements of Belarusian and Ukrainian languages — as a sign of unity and mutual respect among the nations.
Belarusians themselves raised money for their figure with the historical coat of arms of the country, which cost 15,000 zlotys (over 3,500 euros), to demonstrate: Belarusians are here, the community lives and remembers its roots.
This square is a symbolic place on the map of Warsaw, located at the intersection of important city arteries, in the area of embassies and international institutions. The parish decided that the place required 'a message that would be legible to everyone,' and chose to create a Christmas nativity scene as a sign of peace and dialogue. The author of the sculptures is Faustyna Makaruk.