For several years, Saint-Albert-Le-Grand Church has been a gathering place for university students and young professionals affiliated with the Centre étudiant Dominicum (CéDum). On Saturday, October 25, 2025, for the third consecutive year (after the pandemic pause), the Dominican convent church was transformed in the traditional orange of Taizé through fabrics and lighting, hosting a Taizé Evening. Brother Émile, one of the two Canadian members of the ecumenical Taizé community, was present during his visit to Montreal.

Brother Émile’s profound sensitivity permeated CéDum starting at 3:00 p.m. He first met with young people who had already visited the Taizé community, reminding them that Christ’s love is experienced through patience. Afterwards, participants engaged in a peaceful session of Taizé chants with the young choir from the Centre and friends of the community, exploring the spirit behind each song chosen for the evening. Finally, the dedicated team of volunteers, choristers, musicians, and friends gathered for a shared meal before entering the Taizé prayer service, using music and meditation to deepen their personal encounter with Christ.

During the evening, as in his homily at the university Mass the following day, Brother Émile emphasized the importance of hope for everyone. “It is not always easy to speak of hope today,” he acknowledged. Through the imagery of the eagle and the birds of the sky, he illustrated the significance of trusting surrender to God, encouraging all gathered—of every age and background—by saying, “Christ accompanies us in our story and will never abandon us.”

For some, the Taizé style of prayer may have been entirely new, though many would have heard a Taizé chant before. One young student shared her experience after the evening:

“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for this beautiful evening, so rich in emotions. I felt things I had never experienced before: it was intense, profound, and truly unforgettable. Thank you for introducing me to this wonderful community! It has already deeply touched me.”

The evening’s beauty lay in the blend of newcomers and those familiar with Taizé prayer, each participating at their own pace and in their own way, yet united in a single heart with Christ. CéDum succeeded in offering this event to share and celebrate the richness of Christian prayer. Special thanks are extended to Brother Émile for his gentle guidance, helping participants step away from everyday anxieties and refocus on Jesus Christ, as well as to every volunteer from different nations and languages, singing together in praise of the Lord.

CéDum evolves in step with its young participants. If we can reach young people where they are today, it is because the Centre’s mission is alive. To learn more about our activities and services, visit our website at www.cedum.org, follow our updates on Instagram or Facebook, and we humbly invite your financial support to sustain our vital and essential mission with youth.
 

Gustavo Adolfo Garay Ortega, Director
Centre étudiant Dominicum