WCC APPRECIATES THE 47TH TAIZÉ EUROPEAN YOUTH MEETING IN TALLINN

Tallinn, Estonia – The General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, extended greetings and gratitude to the participants of the 47th Taizé European Youth Meeting held in Tallinn. The event took place from December 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025, with over 3,000 young people from Europe and other parts of the world in attendance.

In his message, Pillay highlighted the alignment between the Pilgrimage of Trust initiated by the Taizé Community and WCC’s Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity. “Both call us to walk together as people of faith, embodying the transformative values of the Gospel in a world yearning for healing and renewal,” he stated.

Pillay emphasized that justice, reconciliation, and unity are the pillars of these pilgrimages. “Justice requires tangible action, reconciliation calls for healing, and unity demands humility. These values are manifested in every step of the pilgrimage,” he said. He also commended the youth for their enthusiasm, describing them as bringers of fresh energy, creativity, and determination to the global ecumenical mission.

As an ecumenical journey, this pilgrimage underscores the importance of togetherness in faith amid diversity. “We are united in Christ, even as we express our faith in diverse ways. This reflects the essence of ecumenism—journeying together as the body of Christ, valuing our differences as gifts, and realizing Jesus’ prayer that all may be one,” Pillay added.

He encouraged participants to feel the support of the global Christian community throughout the meeting. “May you be inspired by the knowledge that you are part of a greater movement, guided by the Holy Spirit and committed to manifesting God’s kingdom of love and peace in the world,” he concluded.

The next Taizé European Youth Meeting is scheduled to take place in Paris, France, at the end of 2025.