Taizé

When we think of Taizé, we typically think of a calm, contemplative service focused on meditation with gentle repetitive chants for music. But what is Taizé really? Where did it come from? Taizé originates from a Christian community, dating back to 1940. There, a community of monastic brothers from both Catholic and Protestant backgrounds live in Taizé, Saone-et-Loire, Burgundy, France. They consist of 100 men from all Christian backgrounds and 30 countries. Thousands of Christians take a pilgrimage to the monastery every year. The music they sing in their church services consist of simple phrases repeated. Sometimes they are sung in canon. Often it is a Capella (without instruments). Most songs are inspired by scripture, the Psalms, Eastern Orthodox chants, and old Catholic prayers. The first Taizé music in the early years of the monastery was written by Jacques Bergier, then later Joseph Gelineau. The Taizé community focuses on ecumenical practices and fostering reconciliation across diverse Christian traditions. Among their pilgrims are many young adults ages 15-35, sisters from Catholic orders, and European volunteers. Many pilgrims will bring back the traditional services to their local churches, communities, groups, parishes, etc. This is to harbor a Pilgrimage of Trust on Earth.

This Maundy Thursday (4/2/26), we will be practicing the traditional Taizé service with a small collection of Taizé songs, chanted, with simple piano accompaniment.

Suzie Hager, MDiv
Music Coordinator