The Rule of Taize

by Roger of Taizé

The Rule of Taize was written by Brother Roger, its founder, during the winter of 1952-3. His intention was to express for the young men who had committed themselves to the group 'for their whole life in celibacy and to a life together in great simplicity', 'the essential that makes the common life possible'. The community has since become one of the world's most important sites of Christian pilgrimage. Over 100,000 young people from around the world travel there each year for prayer, Bible study, sharing, and communal work. Through the community's ecumenical outlook, they are encouraged to live in the spirit of kindness, simplicity and reconciliation.

Genres: Religion, Spirituality

144 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2012

About the author

Frère Roger (Brother Roger), baptised Roger Louis Schütz-Marsauche, also known as Brother Roger, was the founder and prior of the Taizé Community, an ecumenical monastic community.

Reviews

[Nathan Willard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This brief book sets out the rules for living among the monastic community at Taizé. Written out of concern that Brother Roger might die and leave the community without defining principles, it reflects both his simplicity and his flexibility. I got the community rule of Iona at the same time, and it's about 10 times as long. The principles here are good insight into the life of community, but I can also see the rule being somewhat challenging among the brothers because of the lack of specificity.

If you are looking for one monastic rule to read, and you don't have a ton of time, this is the one. :)

[Seth Cooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brief, simple look into the life of those in the monastic tradition in Taizé. These are simple, beautiful ways of life that point towards Christ and maturation in His Spirit.

If you're interested at all in the monastic tradition, or are interested in developing a rule of life and are needing some inspiration for a shared rule of life, The Rule of Taizé is a great example of such a rule.

[Joe Cowan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful and simple booklet outlining the Rule or tenets for the monastic community of Taizé. The tenets here seem to come from a foundational admonition to be in unity and peace with one another and abstain from burdens, with invitation to embrace the joy of self-forgetfulness, always reminding the Brothers of the forgiveness that they live in.

[Bobbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was informative about the history of the Taize service and its constant uniformity. It gives more meaning knowing the background.

[Tom Helmick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simple, yet profound and practical rule for each of our lives.