Taize's transforming power

Taize's transforming power


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Published: 18 August 2011

A group of 32 grappled with silence, prayer and living a more simple lifestyle than they were used to at Taize this summer.

The group included pupils from Trinity, Canon Slade, Bury CofE, St James’ Farnworth, Crompton House and St Anne’s Academy, accompanied by the Bishop of Middleton, Director of Education Maurice Smith and Youth Assistant Lindsay Wright.

Asked about the trip, one young person said, “I’d never been in a church before, and I’ve never understood praying, but thanks to the silences I do now, and I just want to learn more and do it more”.

Taize welcomed the Mancunians with a downpour, so they enjoyed the challenge of putting up their tents in the rain! Lindsay reports, “Our first lunch broke the ice on how much we’d be living simply over the coming week. With a plate of cous cous, a small brownie, a piece of fruit, bread, and a bowl (not a cup or mug) to drink from, we knew this week would be interesting!

“For some the church services were like nothing they had experienced before and it was a bit of a culture shock being around so many people from different countries. The group made amazing friends with people from across the globe. Our red hoodies were a massive talking point!”

A typical day would include three prayer services, small group work, a visit to Oyak, for Cornettos, hot chocolate and pizza, as well as singing, dancing and socialising.

Lindsay added, “The services included 12 minutes of silent prayer. At first many of us struggled with this, myself included. By the end of the week we realised just how little time we give ourselves in our busy lives for silence and time with God without distractions, and we treasured those 12 minutes.

“We saw amazing transformations in the young people, some of whom had never been inside a church before, and there were tears on the day we had to leave and say goodbye.

“I never thought you could learn and experience so much in one week. It really has been life changing. I would recommend Taize for anyone and we are hoping to go again next year. What you learn about living simply and making time for your relationship with God is amazing.”


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