Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 16-23 May

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an ecumenical Christian observance celebrated internationally every year. It is co-ordinated by the Catholic Church's Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the World Council of Churches.

Here in Aotearoa New Zealand the eight days between Ascension and Pentecost enables Christians with differing views to join together united in prayer. The theme for 2021 'Abide in my love' highlights the importance of an ongoing close relationship with Jesus.

 'Jesus also showed us how to abide in him. He left us his own example: each day he withdrew to pray in deserted places. We need prayer, as we need water, to live. Personal prayer, spending time with Jesus, adoration, these are essential if we are to abide in him. In this way, we can place our worries, hopes and fears, joys and sorrows in the Lord’s heart. Most of all, centred on Jesus in prayer, we can experience his love. And in this way receive new vitality, like the branches that draw sap from the trunk. This is the first unity, our personal integrity, the work of the grace we receive by abiding in Jesus. '

Pope Francis homily 25 Jan 2021

For the full homily text by Pope Francis "Abide in my love" for WPCU 2021 HERE 

Resources

Liturgy Facilitators guide. This is a service for the Week of Prayer written in the form of three vigils following the Benedictine prayer service tradition.

Download a pdf of the Facilitators Guide HERE

Download a pdf of the Liturgy for participants HERE 

Eight Days of Prayer for WPCU 2021. Particularly suitable for use by individuals.

Download a pdf of the Eight Days of Prayer HERE

For other resources and further background information go to www.catholic.org.nz  or click HERE