Taizé in Birmingham: Final preparations

More than 500 young Christians from across the UK and Europe will gather in Birmingham next weekend (28th April – 1st May) to discover and deepen the treasures of their faith at a meeting organised by the ecumenical Taize community.

Local churches of all denominations are busy preparing to welcome them and have spoken of the joy of engaging in an encounter with young Christians from such a diversity of backgrounds. An international team of young volunteers are also helping to prepare for those who will arrive.

The theme of the weekend - 'Hidden Treasure'- speaks of a desire to uncover and celebrate the depths of faith and acts of solidarity which are abundantly present but often hidden or forgotten in our society. Surrounded by the seemingly insurmountable challenges of global conflict, climate change, community breakdown... many young people are striving to live more fulfilled lives and thirsting to find ways to make a positive difference to those around them.

During the weekend, a regular routine of prayer together will help the young people to go to the depths of their faith and in doing so discover a love which overcomes fear; enabling them to overcome the anger and distrust which drives people away from one another.

Together, in a series of workshops and in small group discussions, they will explore how individuals and groups are working to improve the world around them: working with prisoners, the homeless, refugees; campaigning for change on peace or environmental issues; making the world more beautiful through art and music. The aim is to send young people back into their communities encouraged and inspired to continue discovering and creating ‘hidden treasures’ wherever they are.

For more information see: www.taize.fr/birmingham