 T.H.O.M.A.S.GROUP
VISITS TAIZE IN FRANCELynda Smith,a T.H.O.M.A.S.Project Worker organised a pilgrimage to Taize for some of our former and present clients.They set off to France in July.The money was raised by social activities including a coffee morning,a market stall in the centre of Bolton and a social night in Blackburn.We thank all those who took part.Lynda states the following: In Winter 2000 it was decided that we should offer a small group of clients from our Reconcile Project (Drug rehabilitation)the opportunity of a pilgrimage to Taize. This is a place in the mid-east of France where an ecumenical community exists,especially for young people, promoting peace and unity.It offers everyone the opportunity to reflect,share,pray and ‘just be ’in a peaceful and rural setting. At T.H.O.M.A.S.we work holistically,trying to meet the individuals needs,encompassing mind,body and spirit (the human person). The trip would be most of all for our clients,their first holiday abroad,their first pilgrimage,their first encounter with many other people from other nations,cultures and diverse Christian backgrounds. We were invited to enter into the ‘spirit of Taize ’and so reap the benefits of our own efforts.So together,we tried,supporting each other minute by minute,hour by hour,day by day,flowers began to bloom in the ‘Desert on the hill of Taize ’.The beautiful ways we were welcomed,accepted,and loved by so many and how our little group could give so much love back,each was a gift from God to each other. Near the end of our week,we had the honour of doing a T.H.O.M.A.S.presentation to other English pilgrims and a talk,poems and a song were given.It was a real privilege. We are already planning next years trip.Amen. Katy,who was a member of the group who travelled to Taize stated the following,‘It was an awesome experience, one which I will never forget.A pilgrimage in every sense.’ Catherine,another member of the group stated,‘Before I went I didn ’t know what to expect and I didn ’t know what I was letting myself in for.Gradually,I began to get into it and it was an experience beyond words. Margaret,who was one of the group leaders,said,‘I have to say it was a real joy to be with the group of Lee,Paul, Sean,Craig and Catherine experiencing Taize.It was another turning point in my own life.’ |
