For many years, when we lived in Sevenoaks, last week-end of July, would traditionally mean a barbecue with Vanessa’s brother and his family as they stopped with us for one night en-route from Chester, where they lived, to their house in Burgundy, some 6 hours drive from Calais. They would be up early on the Saturday morning and after going through the Channel Tunnel, arrive in Burgundy in mid-afternoon, and stay there for the whole of the summer holidays, (being teachers that was a fair few weeks!)
They had bought a broken down house/barn and spent many years renovating it and eventually installing an excellent swimming pool, which was super. Vanessa and I spent a week or so with them over a number of years. Always hot, beautiful fresh air and local “Macon Villages “ wine at ridiculously cheap price to enjoy (and bring home).
We also explored the area and on a number of occasions we visited Taize, perched high up on the top of a hill about a mile from Cormatin a nearby village.
The community of Taize was started by Brother Roger in 1940 and there are now over 100 brothers in this ecumenical order. Their main purpose is to serve young people and promote ecumenism. To that end when we have visited, we have found the place full of tents from all over Europe and beyond with young folk from many, countries wanting to deepen their faith.
During the day, when the bell rings , everyone gathers at the church ( built of concrete and fribreboard mainly,) and sits on the floor. If one area fills up , roller shutters are opened up and the chapel enlarges to accommodate the number of worshippers. The brothers process in and the simple service begins.
Worshippers are given song books, written in 4 or 5 languages and when a number appears on the board, that particular song is sung by all. The song continues until the number flashes which indicates the last time for the song to be sung.
It is so simple but so beautiful, everyone singing the same song in their own language. When the service is over, just songs and prayers and a Bible reading in French, – usually about 20-30 minutes long . Most of the congregation go outside and line up for their lunch!
So for today’s music I have chosen "Bless the Lord" because you can see the church, the brothers and the congregation while you listen. Enjoy.
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