Dear Brother,

In these days when we remember the return to the Father of dear Brother Roger, the Founder of the Taizé Community, who was murdered five years ago, on 16 August 2005, during evening prayer in the Church of Reconciliation, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI wants you to know of his spiritual closeness and union in prayer with the Community and all those involved in commemorating Brother Roger.

A tireless witness to the Gospel of peace and reconciliation, Brother Roger was a pioneer in the difficult paths toward unity among the disciples of Christ. Seventy years ago, he began a community that continues to see thousands of young adults, searching for meaning in their lives, come to it from around the world, welcoming them in prayer and allowing them to experience a personal relationship with God.

Although he has entered eternal joy, he still speaks to us. May his witness to an ecumenism of holiness inspire us in our march towards unity, and may your Community continue to live and to radiate his charism, especially towards the younger generations!

With all his heart, the Holy Father asks God to fill you with his blessings, as well as the Brothers of the Taizé Community and all who are involved with you on the roads to unity among the disciples of Christ, especially the young.