September
5, 2004
Spirit Walk
There have been only a few times in my life when
I have been able to spend time in silence and thoughtfulness. Out
if this time has come clarity of vision and a cheerfulness of heart.
One very special place on my Spirit Walk is a community
located in Taize, a small French village in Burgundy. Here Brother
Roger Shultz settled in 1940, at the age of 25, and “started
an ecumenical monastic community to unify Christians of all denominations.”*
The main purpose of Taize is to provide a community
of faith, focus, music, prayer and Bible Study for 17-29 year olds,
The over 7000 young people that come every week during the summer
go back to their home churches with the strengths of this community,
joy, love, and simplicity, in their hearts. Daily chores are a part
of their contribution.
Community prayer is held morning, noon and evening.
It follows a pattern: songs, composed of simple phrases repeated
many times, a psalm, a Bible reading, and silence. Silence gives
renewal to the spirit, brings meaning to each person, and allows
for important life decisions to be made.
My gifts from Taize continue today: the beauty
of prayer with others; the simple songs in many languages; the twinkle
in Brother Rogers’s eye; candlelight, complete silence and
a renewed spirit within the simple life.
Can you weave your life in the spirit of simplicity?
Is there serene joy in your heart?
Display
your cheerfulness today.
With warm regards,
Susan Sadler Hayman
International Life Transitions Coach
Call me at 662-238-7754
or email me. |