Prayer of Peace in the Spirit of Taizé

Peace Be With You

When Jesus stood in the midst of his disciples for the first time after the resurrection, his first recorded words were "Peace be with you." This amazing gift is given to us, his disciples in this current age, as well. But amidst the stress, pain, and frustration that often surrounds us, that peace can be difficult to draw upon.

Peace Within Us, Peace Around Us

Prayer has the power to re-connect us to an awareness of God's peace. Like a cool breeze in the heat, we are refreshed. Like a fountain in the desert, we can draw upon it and share it. If we know peace in our hearts, we can then act peacefully. Peace within us leads us to foster reconciliation and peace among all people.

How We Pray

Personal prayer is complemented by praying together. We are not alone, and the prayer of others supports our own prayer. Gathered together, we acknowledge Christ in our midst.
 
Prayer in the spirit of Taizé (pronounced "teh-ZAY") is an ecumenical form of prayer, for Christians of all traditions, modeled after a monastic community in Taizé, France. It is a very different experience from a 'normal' church service. No one stands up front; there is no sermon. The church is lit by candles. The simple monthly service is meditative in character, consisting of songs, scripture, a service of light, an extended period of silence for meditation, and prayers for the world.

Singing

The music of this style of prayer generally consists of simple, short, repetitive songs that foster meditation. Using just a few words, such songs express a basic reality of faith and are easily grasped by the mind. As the words are sung over many times, this reality can penetrate the whole being. Meditative singing thus becomes a way of listening to God.

Silence

A time of silence is a rare treat for in our society. Our prayer allows everyone to take part in an extended time of expectant listening and attentive waiting on God. This simple service can draw one into an experience of God's presence and love in one�s innermost being.

Join Us

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We welcome your participation in these opportunities for prayer. Please join us at 7:00 pm, usually on the second Monday of each month. St. Mary's Church is located at 423 First St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.
 
May the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, be in your hearts and minds!