St. Francis Xavier College Church is offering a new prayer
service for students of all faiths. Taize prayer will be celebrated
the third Thursday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in College
Church.

Taize prayer is a simple form of meditation emphasizing song and
scripture, experienced in an environment of silence and peace.

“The service is very popular with students and young people
because of its simplicity. It draws on the mysteries of God and is
an ecumenical service, so students of different faiths can come
together,” said Mike Garrido, Parish Center administrator.

This idea of all-inclusiveness is central to Taize prayer. All
faiths and all kinds of people are encouraged to participate.

“The songs are repetitive and simple, so all can learn them.
They are sung in many different languages, so everyone is
included,” said Garrido.

The ceremony is set in candlelight, which is used as because of
its universal meaning of enlightenment. Icons are also used as
windows to reveal God’s presence.

“The simple elements are meditated on and bring the participant
closer to God,” said Garrido.

Taiz� prayer originated in France during World War II.
The monks in the monastery of the town Taiz� opened their
doors to soldiers who wanted refuge from the war. They needed a
common way to pray, and thus developed the Taize style.

Taiz� prayer came to Saint Louis University through the
Just Faith program. Just Faith is a formation program for people to
learn about Catholic social justice teachings.

“It is a 30-week intensive program, which calls for prayer in a
community of all faiths. Taize prayer is exactly what Just Faith is
asking us to do,” said Garrido.

The first Taize prayer service was held last Thursday, Sept. 16.
It was made possible by a grant from the VOICES project, Loyola
Center for Campus Ministry and donations made by parishioners. More
than 120 people attended the service.

The next Taize prayer service will be held on Oct. 21 at 7:30
p.m. in College Church.