Taizé originated in France during World War II. It takes its name from the small town just southeast of Paris where Brother Roger Schutz, a Swiss Protestant, founded the community in the hopes of serving both Christian and Jewish refugees of the German-occupied country. In the years following World War II, Christian men from various traditions — Catholic and Protestant — came to live at Taizé and participate in Brother Roger’s vision of ecumenism, social justice and peace, eventually forming a community of about 80 brothers from nearly 30 countries.

Today, Taizé continues to be a place of pilgrimage, particularly for young people, who visit the community in the tens of thousands each year.

Taizé has also become well-known for its style of music and prayer, which emphasizes silence, contemplation and stillness. Taizé devotees have carried its music and traditions to Catholic and Christian communities throughout the world.

©LPi