Hundreds of thousands of people make this journey, and many return time and again. Over fifty years ago Brother Roger founded Taize, an ecumenical community of brothers in southern France. The bells ring out to call everyone to prayer three times each day. Inside the church, many candles illumine icons. The soft lighting creates an atmosphere of contemplation, reflection, and meditation.
People kneel or sit on the floor to pray.
There are songs and readings in many languages. The chants are short and memorable. A long silence for personal meditation occurs in the middle of the prayer service. At the end, the singing continues as people slowly leave the church. The music is thoughtfully prepared by the leaders.