"We will all be changed by the Victory of
our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor 15:51-58
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was established over 100 years ago as an opportunity for Christians:
- to reflect on the scandal of the divisions within the Church;
- to meditate together on Jesus’ prayer for the unity of his disciples (John 17.20-24); and
- to recommit themselves to restoring the essential unity of faith and practice in the Church, “so that the world may believe” in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour of us all.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is held from January 18 to 25. This is the octave proposed by Paul Wattson in 1908, because it begins with the feast of St. Peter and ends with the feast of the conversion of St. Paul. Finding ways to pray together during this January week means that we are in harmony with people around the world, which brings its own graces; in this way, we join with all who are praying, reflecting, studying, and even eating and drinking together to celebrate and pray for Christian unity.
For more information about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity or for help planning a celebration in your local area, please contact Julien Hammond, Associate Director, Office of Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations, Phone: 780-469-1010 ext. 2271 or email using the Contact Us button above.