The “Parable of Communion” in the writings of Brother Roger of Taizé

Abstract

Roger Schutz-Marsauche, born in the French speaking part of Switzerland to a strict Protestant pastor and a gentle woman of artistic temperament in the beginning of the twentieth century felt called, during the Second World War, to be a living sign of communion on earth. His search for a place where to live out his call to a common life built on reconciliation according to the Gospel led him to the small village of Taizé in Burgundy where he was eventually joined by other men eager to live a “parable of communion.” For this parable to be authentic, one has to be in communion with self, as it is only an integrated personality that is able to go through life with open-mindedness and peace of heart. This inner serenity opens one’s vision to the needs of others not only in poor countries but also around us. Brother Roger felt a special solidarity towards youths who sorely needed someone in whom to put their trust in a rapidly changing society. This attention to others also gave rise to small fraternities in very poor countries where the brothers live the same life of the needy. This deep communion can only be made possible through a close relationship with God, strengthened by prayer which in turn gives rise to trust and joy. It is within the unique communion called the Church, with a faith rooted in the Risen Christ and emboldened by the Spirit, that Christians are called to be a leaven of reconciliation to the world.