The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity takes place from 18 -25 January 2022. The theme chosen for this year is ‘We Saw His Star in the East’. Materials for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity have been prepared by the churches of the Middle East.
Background to the theme for 2022 – ‘We Saw His Star in the East’
The story of the Magi visiting the Holy Family in Bethlehem is one very familiar to us. The Magi have sometimes been seen as a symbol of the world’s diversity – different religions and cultures – that comes to pay homage to the Christ-child. The story might therefore represent the unity of all created that God desires.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in 2022 has been prepared by the churches of the Middle East, the history of which was, and still is, characterised by conflict and strife, tainted with blood and darkened by injustice and oppression. The Christians of the Middle East offer these resources conscious that the world shares many of the travails and much of the difficulties that it experiences, and yearns for a light to lead the way to the Saviour who is the light that overcomes darkness.
Serving the Gospel today requires a commitment to the human being, especially the poorest, the weakest and those marginalised. It requires from the churches transparency and accountability in dealing with the world, and with each other. This means churches need to cooperate to provide relief to the afflicted, to welcome the displaced, to relieve the burdened, and to build a just and honest society. This is a call for churches to work together so that young people can build a good future according to God’s heart, a future in which all human beings can experience life, peace, justice, and love.
Resources
The resources for 2022 are now available for use. Click here to download a wide range of resources including materials available in the Irish language. The resources include a prayer service and daily prayer for the home that includes Scripture, a meditation, prayer, questions and a practical ‘Go & Do’ section.
Archbishops of Armagh mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022
A video marking the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity has been prepared by Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Archbishop John McDowell, the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh. In this video the archbishops reflect on the theme of Christian unity.
A new Prayer inspired by the theme for 2022
The General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity are offer this prayer inspired by the the for this year’s Week of Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
as the Magi journeyed towards Bethlehem led by the star,
so by your heavenly light,
guide the Catholic Church to walk together with all Christians during this time of synod.
As the Magi were united in their worship of Christ,
lead us closer to your Son and so to one another,
so that we become a sign of the unity that you desire for your Church and the whole creation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Social Media
Those taking part in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity are invited to share photos and social media posts to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Twitter wall – simply add the #wpcuwall hashtag to your tweet (note there is a delay before they appear). You can also find updates about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Twitter by following the #wpcu2022 hashtag.
ENDS
