THEME OF WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY: “LEARN TO DO GOOD; SEEK JUSTICE”
Yesterday marked the start of the weeklong period in January known as the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, during which the Pope receives delegations from different Christian denominations and, in their presence, celebrates vespers in St. Paul’s Outside the Walls on the January 25th feast of the Conversion of St. Paul.
That will again be the case this year as ecumenical delegations arrive in Rome to mark this week. Today, for example, Pope Francis received a delegation from Finland, and focussed his remarks on “one baptism,” and on the importance of working for Christian unity and reconciliation among Christians and in the world.
“Having received the one baptism, we, as believers, are called above all to give thanks because, starting with the waters of baptism, our very existence has been reconciled with God, with others, and with all creation. As reconciled sons and daughters, we are called to work tirelessly for reconciliation among ourselves, and to be agents of reconciliation in our world.”
Francis also noted that, “As witnesses of faith in Christ, who immersed Himself in the frailty of our human condition, we are duty bound to immerse ourselves in the wounds of all those in need. And to do this together.”
The Holy Father announced this week at the January 15 Angelus, saying, “From 18 to 25 January the traditional Week of prayer for Christian Unity will be held. The theme this year is taken from the prophet Isaiah: “Learn to do good; seek justice” (1:17). Let us thank the Lord who guides his people towards full communion with faithfulness and patience, and let us ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us and sustain us with his gifts.”
Francis also explained that, “The path towards Christian unity and the path of the synodal conversion of the Church are linked. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to announce that on Saturday 30 January, in Saint Peter’s Square, an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil will take place, with which we will entrust to God the work of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. For the young people who come to the Vigil there will be a special programme throughout the weekend, organized by the Taizé Community. As of now, I invite all brothers and sisters of all the Christian denominations to participate in this gathering of the People of God.”
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is coordinated by the World Council of Churches with the participation of member Churches.
Joan's Rome 