Congregation members and friends of St Barnabas Limassol gathered in the beautiful surroundings of Troodos forest in Cyprus on Sunday, for a parish picnic followed by evening prayer in the Taizé tradition—the peaceful atmosphere of St George-in-the-Forest providing a particularly fitting setting for contemplation and quiet reflection.

The Reverend George Vidaikin, who led the service, shared a brief history of the Taizé community, with its particular emphasis on prayer, silence, simplicity and youth ministry.

The service was attended by worshippers of various Christian traditions from across the island—a truly ecumenical gathering that reflected the international and multicultural character of both the Taizé tradition and the St Barnabas community with a Gospel reading proclaimed in five languages: English, Greek, Russian, Tamil and Sinhala.

Music was performed by Hovig Nassanian, offering a gentle atmosphere for prayer as well as much-loved Taizé hymns such as Ubi Caritas; Jesus, Remember Me; and In the Lord I’ll Be Ever Thankful.

Photo credit: Gabi Nobre