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Christians from all over Europe make a pilgrimage to Rostock: what you need to know about the largest gathering in Taizé
Rostock. Paris I, Rome, Basel, Madrid and now Rostock: From December 28 to January 1, the Society of Taizé, an ecumenical order in France, invites you to its annual European Youth Meeting. But this time not in one of the most famous megalopolis in the world, but in the Hanseatic city and the surrounding area. It is expected that the youth population between the ages of 18 and 35 will number about 10,000 young people from 30 countries. It is the 45th meeting of its kind, and the focus of the event is on hymns, prayers, meditations, and services. Organizers agree that “it will be a magical experience”.
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A conscious decision to hold the youth meeting was made a little differently than before. Although this is a huge risk, as Brother Bernard of the Order of Téziere revealed Thursday at St. Peter’s Basilica. Not only is Rostock much smaller than the previous places, but for the first time an entire region needs to be hosted. Additionally, the event will take place in a largely decluttered area. “However, Rostock and the region offer great potential as a meeting place. We are sure that we will meet many open hearts here.” Reverend Albrecht Jax of Bad Doberan, representative of the Evangelical Church District, is convinced of this as well.
A meeting for believers only?
The religious brother emphasizes that believers are not the only ones invited. “We really hope that in this way we can reach all those who do not see in the church every Sunday.” No matter if young or old, Christian or atheist, from near or far: anyone who wants to join. The meeting is about promoting understanding between peoples and coexistence among people, overcoming prejudices, and paving new avenues of mutual trust. “What is happening in the world today worries many people. Here they can enter into an exchange.”
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Costs, location and access
The five-day event is only charged to those who also need accommodation. Then the price ranges from 55 to 60 euros. Registration is possible on the website taizerostock.de. Anyone else can participate without registering or paying. Not only will the event take place in the Hanseatic city itself, but up to 100 guest sites will also be set up in the area. Exactly where is uncertain at this point in time. Discussions are currently ongoing. However, it is planned that the Fajr prayer will be performed at the individual decentralized sites.
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In the afternoon, all participants are finally expected to be at the site of the main event – the Hanseatic fair in the Schmarl district. The brothers signed the building contract last week. For the flight, attempts are currently being made to develop a vehicle ticket with the Warnow Transportation Association.
Wanted supporters in the area
“The only thing missing is accommodation for guests from all over Europe,” notes Brother Richard. Here one counts on the help of the locals. As in other cities, all residents of the region are warmly invited to offer the hospitality of young people. The floor area is about 2 square metres, and a simple breakfast is sufficient. Brother Bernard continued: “People bring their own mats and sleeping bags, so they don’t need much.” Young people are out and about most of the time anyway.
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Can 10,000 young people who do not have local or language skills really be accommodated? Representatives of monasticism are convinced of this. We also call this the path of trust in Hajj. Young people arrive without knowing what to expect. Host families must also take a leap of faith. Our experience has shown that this works very well.”
Written by Susan Jedzinski