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	December 2003
		Taizé Prayer inspiring by Gabriel Kearle
			On Tuesday 21 October a Taizé evening was held at All Saints, South Hobart, sponsored by the Tasmanian Council of Churches, with Brother Ghislain from the Taizé Community in France. About forty-five people met in the Upper Hall at All Saints for a 'bring and share' meal, and to watch a video on life at Taizé. At 8.00pm we moved into the church for a Taizé service, with about sixty-five people present. Brother Ghislain led the service with Fr David O'Neill (organ), Angela Allan (flute), John MacMillan (guitar) and Penni Stennings (vocal). Breath-taking On entering the church everyone received a candle, to be lit at the beginning of the service, which is held in candle-light. The altar was covered in candles that visibly remind us that 'Jesus Christ is the Light of the world'. The atmosphere was very special and helped to enhance the meditative prayer of the chants. We experienced some wonderful chants, such as 'Jesus, your Spirit in us', 'Let us sing to the Lord', and 'God is forgiveness'. A time of intercession, with our sung response of 'O Lord, hear our prayer' was breath-taking. A reading from the third chapter of the letter to the Colossians and the Lord's Prayer were included in the service. It was a truly blessed evening led by a very humble and inspiring man. A Taizé service is held every month (except January) on the third Sunday at 7.00pm (5.00pm from June to September) in All Saints, and on the fifth Sunday of the month at 7.00pm at Saint Raphael's, Fern Tree. Come and join us in this time of meditative prayer.