The theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in 2024 was selected by the World Council of Churches. However, as well as devoting this week to Christian Unity, we remember that in today’s globalised world, we respect persons of all faiths and none.
"You shall love the Lord your God… and your neighbour as yourself "
Luke 10:26
As Pope Francis said,
“It is neither a culture of confrontation nor a culture of conflict which builds harmony within and between peoples, but rather a culture of encounter and a culture of dialogue; this is the only way to peace.”
(September 1, Angelus message)
In a world filled with conflict and tension, the call to dialogue is essential to heal division and misunderstanding, particularly when we are conscious of the many wars continuing in our world today.
The themes mentioned above are taken from the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, reflecting the connection between love of God and love of neighbour with a particular concern for challenging the boundaries of who is considered a "neighbour". Jesus is questioned as to the path to eternal life. His answer is to imitate the love of God in the giving of self for another. It is a call for charity, mercy, justice, and unity.
At Mildmay Mission Hospital we regard each other as our neighbours, ministering to all and caring about each person as we go about our daily work. We do not claim to be perfect, by any manner of means, but we continue to open our doors to those who need our support, grateful that we too, in return, are ministered to and reminded of why we are called to serve.
“Go and do likewise” is echoed by our Mission statement …’ that they may have life in abundance'. During 18th-25th January, perhaps we could find somewhere to pray with another, sit with another, and be inspired by another from a different Church tradition.
Sister Bernie Devine
Mildmay Chaplain
A Prayer for Christian Unity
God our loving God, we thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, the giver of life, who makes us more open to each other, resolves conflict, and strengthens our bonds of communion. May we grow in mutual affection and in the desire to announce the Gospel message more faithfully, so that the world may come together in unity and welcome the Prince of Peace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an opportunity for Christians from local churches to come together in prayer, and many local Churches Together groups will host joint services together during this time. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally observed from 18-25 January each year.
Image credit: Mazur/cbcew.org.uk