Taizé is a little village in the south of France. In 1940 it was visited by Roger Schutz, a theology student in Lausanne.
He was looking for a place where he could start a centre of reconciliation and forgiveness – he was so sad to see killings of Christians in World War 2. [From Taize homepage]He bought property in Taizé and gave shelter to refugees from both sides.
In 1949 seven brothers committed themselves to stay in Taizé until they die, to live simple and poor, to be obedient and stay unmarried. Frére (brother) Roger was the first head (prior) of the Community of Taizé. Today there are 100 brothers from different countries and denominations.
Thousands of young (+ older) people come to Taizé all through the year to take part in the services and discussion groups. Everything is very simple, from the food to the sleeping quarters. There are 3 services daily in the big and beautiful church, consisting of singing Taizé chants, Bible readings and silence.
Each year a gathering of youth (18-35 years of age) in various cities and countries is organized by the brothers of Taizé. This year this ‘Pilgrimage of Trust’ will take place in Cape Town from 25-29 September 2019. The following webpage can be con-sulted for more information: http://www.taize.fr/capetown, or send an email to Cape Town@taize.fr – or contact brother Luc at 0765769474/luc@taize.fr Various congregations will be hosting guests from outside Cape Town. A pamphlet with more information is available
Please pray for this wonderful opportunity to reach young people and give them a spiritual grounding and a possible meeting with Jesus, our Lord and Saviour.
Lastly: On every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 19:00 a Taizé service is held at Erin Hall, Erin Road, Rondebosch. The service consists of the singing of Taizé chants, a short message, prayer and silence. Everyone who is interested is welcome to attend!
Ingrid Brunke
