As we have been talking so much about religion, I want to show you today an alternative approach to Christianity which became very interesting for young people from all over the world.
We have already discussed in class the influence of globalization on individual and societal problems as well as reforming of people’s cultural identity (like in China), new forms of living together in alternative communities (Hutterers, Amis) and the rise of different religious movements. Our pluralistic society is more and more confronted with problems due to various opinions and live-concepts. One considers a clash between cultures, especially western and eastern countries, as well as between the rich and the poor, because of inequal distribution of resources. But also inside countries the conflict potential became very high through immigration. Terrorism, fear, violence, emmigration problems, religious conflicts, misery. Are these expressions determining our daily life today?
Maybe not that drastically, but we can see that people are scrutinizing the meaning of life and its tradtitional values, like work and family as fulfillment. Is it worth having a family? Is it worth working just for money? Especially young people sometimes feel lost in our society which has lost much of its norms and values for a satisfying life, but at the same time increased the number of possibilities which can lead us to a satisfying life-style. But which way to choose? Which products to buy? Are we defining ourselfes just through the things we have instead of the kind of person we are? Is it possible to find answers to questions of young people and to encourage them to do, what they really want to do?
That’s why I want to present you today the community of Taizé. The ecumenical community of Taizé in France gives young people of any cultural attitude and religious belief to experience themselves and others by praying (which means singing and meditation) common working for the community and discussing subjects of interest. Living religion through its simplicity is the aim of the group of male believers, called “brothers” who dedicated their life in order to extend and transmit religious values like trust, friendship and love, especially to the younger generation.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- The Community of Taizé – A special place.
- 'Frère Roger' - The founder of Taizé.
- The course of life in Taizé – Weekly and daily visitors, longtime stay, life of the brothers.
- The Mission of Taizé – Taking Taizé to other countries.
- Group-Discussion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This text explores the ecumenical community of Taizé in France, focusing on its origins, daily life, and global impact. The author shares personal experiences from her own visit to Taizé, highlighting the community's emphasis on prayer, work, and dialogue. The text aims to introduce Taizé as a model for fostering trust and reconciliation in a world increasingly marked by cultural and religious differences.
- The unique character of Taizé as an international village, welcoming people of all backgrounds.
- The life and legacy of Frère Roger, the community's founder, and his vision of love and reconciliation.
- The daily routine in Taizé, including prayer, work, and bible discussion.
- The mission of Taizé to spread its message of trust and love across the globe, through meetings, fraternities, and local initiatives.
- The potential of Taizé to inspire young people to find meaning in life and embrace a sense of community and belonging.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- The Community of Taizé – A special place. This chapter introduces the location and significance of Taizé, a small village in France that has become synonymous with the ecumenical community. It highlights the international character of Taizé, attracting thousands of young people and families from all over the world. The chapter also emphasizes the accessibility of Taizé, with affordable transportation options and support available for those with limited means.
- 'Frère Roger' - The founder of Taizé. This chapter focuses on the life and legacy of Frère Roger, the founder of the Taizé community. It recounts his journey from Switzerland to France, his vision for a community of love, and the establishment of the Taizé community during a time of war and suffering. The chapter explores how the community's roots in prayer and simplicity developed from the shared experiences of those seeking refuge and hope in Taizé.
- The course of life in Taizé – Weekly and daily visitors, longtime stay, life of the brothers. This chapter describes the daily routine in Taizé, characterized by a balance of work, prayer, and community gatherings. It outlines the typical schedule for visitors, highlighting the importance of prayer, bible discussion, and simple living. The chapter also provides insight into the lives of the brothers who dedicated their lives to the community, living in celibacy and supporting themselves through their own work.
- The Mission of Taizé – Taking Taizé to other countries. This chapter explores the mission of Taizé to spread its message of trust and love beyond its physical location. It highlights the community's efforts to organize meetings and establish fraternities in different countries, fostering dialogue and understanding among young people from various backgrounds. The chapter also details the organization of Taizé prayers in churches and homes around the world, empowering individuals and communities to participate in this pilgrimage of trust.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This text focuses on key concepts like ecumenical community, trust, reconciliation, prayer, simple living, international dialogue, and young people. The community of Taizé is presented as a model for fostering hope, peace, and understanding in a world marked by cultural and religious differences.
- Quote paper
- Mirjam Moegele (Author), 2007, Taize, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/147123
