People participate in the Taize Prayer around the Cross, which involves placing one’s head on a crucifix icon and praying in communion with people suffering around the world. (Courtesy Dann Ebina)
Hawaii Catholic Herald
The University of Hawaii’s Newman Center will again sponsor the traditional Good Friday Taize Prayer around the Cross March 29 at 7:30 p.m.
The candlelit ceremony includes chants, prayers, reflections, a Scripture reading of the Passion and a period of meditative silence.
The prayer culminates with small groups of participants kneeling and placing their heads on a large crucifix icon displayed flat on stools, then praying deeply in invisible communion with those who suffer throughout the world: the abandoned, immigrants, the poor, the homeless, the tortured, and those who suffer injustice of any kind.
Coming to the cross in this way is a symbolic gesture of lying down and entrusting to God one’s own personal burdens which at times seem unbearable.
The Taize Prayer around the Cross was adopted by the Taize Brothers in France from the Eastern European Christians where it has long been customary.
Recognizing that Christ extended his friendship to all, Taize prayer is ecumenical and calls all those who love Christ to form a community of friendship to heal the wounds of humanity.
Taize, a small village in Burgundy, France, is the home monastery for close to 100 international brothers. It attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world. Four orders of Catholic sisters work in tandem with the brothers. The Taize community also sponsors large gatherings in Europe and other parts of the world.
All are invited to the Newman Center’s Taize Prayer. The center, at 1941 East-West Road, is mauka of the Korean Studies Center. Parking is available in front and back of Newman. For more information go to newmanhawaii.org or call (808) 988-6222.