Taizé debuts Ash Wednesday, Feb. 25 at First Congregational Church (UCC) in Austin.

It could make the entire Lenten season experience even more meaningful.

According to the Rev. Lev Reynolds, interim pastor, Taizé originated in 1940 in France. Its purpose: To enhance prayer and meditation; two things important to every Lenten season.

“Basically, it’s a different form of prayer and meditation than we are used to,” Reynolds said. “There’s a lot of music, but it involves chanting.”

Christians everywhere are about to immerse themselves in Lent, the 40-day period before Easter. It begins Feb. 25 and ends April 11, the day before Easter (Sundays are skipped if counting the actual 40 days).

The first-ever Taizé service debuts at 7 p.m. Feb. 25 at First Congregational Church (UCC) of Austin. Also Feb. 25, Reynolds will lead a group study, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the church lounge. Church members and the public are invited to attend. For more information call First Congregational Church (UCC) at 433-2301.

The church is located at 1910 Third Ave. N.W.