The plan is to leave Norwich on 15 July and return on 23 July 2023. The pilgrimage is aimed at young people aged between 18 and 30.
Bishop Graham will be leading the pilgrimage and the aim is to join with other pilgrimages from Portsmouth and Wells dioceses to travel to France together. The approximate cost will be £100, which includes travel by overnight coach, plus spending money. There are bursaries available to help families on lower incomes.
The Taizé Community is an inter-denominational monastic community in Taizé, Burgundy in France, founded after WWII. It’s made up of more than 100 Brothers, from different traditions, who are from around 30 countries. Taizé has become an important site of Christian pilgrimage, with a focus on youth.
The aim is to help young people to mature in a safe but challenging environment and all are invited to participate in the community life where each person is free to be who they are.
Bishop Graham says: “A pilgrim is someone who leaves the comfort of home to travel beyond familiar boundaries, to cross into new landscapes and places, and to step out into the unknown on an adventure with God. That’s my invitation to you – to experience something new in your journey with Jesus in the rhythm of prayer and a simple life at Taizé.”
Being at Taizé is an experience rather than a ‘talk’. This means it is accessible to those who do not think of themselves as being religious, as well as those of other faiths. Each day in the community includes services, biblical reflections, small international discussion groups, practical activities and prayer with the whole community. As well as this, it offers a safe way for young people to experience a wide range of languages and cultures.
Young people who have previously been to Taizé have said;
“I loved the simplicity of the day and the space to be.”
“I feel more confident in making new friends and I am going home to look for opportunities to serve.”
“I didn’t need to worry about what anyone else thought of me.”
If you would like to join or know of any young adults who might be interested, then please email Jeremy Brown to register your interest, before the end of April.