The rhythm of life

A quick update from Taize. Sorry no pictures until I have a better signal or Wi-Fi and my laptop.

Uncertainty has given way to rhythm. Morning prayers, breakfast, bible teaching, reflection time, midday prayers, lunch (including washing up), quite time, group discussion, cup of lemon tea(or in our case an ice cream), supper, evening prayers, bed.

Possibly not the most exciting timetable for you, but for me a time to relax and reflect. Even being retired, life is busy and this is a wonderful place to reconnect with God and contemplate what His next call for me is.

I think for both of us Taize has been a surprise. For me though it is obvious God is at work here. Not that that is a surprise. There is a feel, a presence. You can talk to God. Plenty of space and time to do so. It has the brothers who make this place a place of prayer and for some it is very special and holy indeed, and this is so evident during the times of prayer.

Exploring the bible message in our small group has been a highlight. So wonderful to share and discover together not only the meaning of the passage and life of Jesus, but how that is the same and/or different between countries and cultures. Real communion with each other. Taize have meeting later in the year between young Christians and Muslims. Somehow I wish I could observe such a coming together.

Taize encompasses an ethos of God’s kingdom being for all. Yes it is a Christian Community and yes, it preaches Jesus as Son of God, saviour and redeemer, but also that message of Christ’s that God’s love knows no bound and is far deeper than we could ever imagine.

So, is this a holy place? Undoubtedly it is. Could I personally keep returning? I’m not too sure yet but that doesn’t make it any less special.