Taizé with Deb

Last night I went to Viator's Taizé with my friend Deb. I knew she would be open to and would welcome and enjoy the experience and so I invited her to join me for an hour of peaceful prayer and worship.

As we sat down in the chapel, it was pretty dark...hard to read the words to the chants/songs...that's why I sit close to the rear alter with all the candles. I explained to Deb that she'll catch on to the words since they are repeated over many times...then she says--'oh, they are in Latin'.

The worship service began as usual with one of the Brothers introducing himself and explaining a bit of their process of worship. I was a bit concerned that not many people were there, then a few late comers came in, including my friend Rich.

We all sang the well known chants of:

Laudate omnes gentes
Ubi caritas
Beati
Magnificat

Well, they are now all well known to me these days as I listen to them often on the train...what a great playlist--51 songs of Taizé.

The service was beautiful as usual. A few tears shed as we began the service and of course some as I placed my candle on the alter and said a prayer to Christine.

After the service I introduced Deb to Rich and we shared our thoughts on the evening and its worth in our busy daily lives. Deb had a very busy day and this was her first time all day to really sit down and s l o w d o w n ... It was great to have Rich explain his desire to attend and what it means to him. We spoke of discipline and wanting to come vs. having to come. I missed seeing his wife, but we'll see her next month. I believe Deb really enjoyed the evening. I'm so happy to share this worship with others who appreciate it. A thanks to Deb for joining me and she'll be on the list for October...maybe we can have Mike and Carolyn join us.

This morning on the train ride to work...I created my own mini-Taizé service by playing the four chants in order of the service...nice to remind me of the peace I felt just 12 hours before.

Taizé is the way...