Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit.
(cf. Jn 15:1-17)
January is a month when Christians around the world pay particular attention to the unity of the church. Specifically, Christians dedicate an entire week during the month to pray for unity among the followers of Jesus and especially to overcome historical and present divisions that exist between church communities.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is celebrated in Canada from January 18 to 25.
A resource kit to help prepare for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and for use throughout 2021 has been prepared jointly by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Commission on Faith and Order of the World Council of Churches.
Worship and background materials for the 2021 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity were prepared by the Switzerland-based Monastic Community of Grandchamp, which includes sisters from different churches and various countries. The theme they chose for 2021 is based on John 15:1-17 and expresses Grandchamp Community’s vocation to prayer, reconciliation and unity in the church and the human family.
Download the Worship & Background Materials
The materials from the kit may be used in various ways. Churches and Christian communities could:
- observe the week of prayer together through a single common service;
- incorporate “Week of Prayer” materials into their own services;
- observe the week of prayer in their worship for each day during the week;
- engage in Bible studies on the “Week of Prayer” theme.
Those who chose to pray privately may find the materials helpful for focusing their prayer intentions. They can be mindful that they are in communion with others praying all around the world for the greater visible unity of Christ’s Church.
For more information about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity or for help planning a celebration in your local area, please contact Julien at 780-469-1010, ext. 2133, or email by clicking the Contact Us link and selecting Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations.