The Missionary Society of St Columban is joining the global celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The theme for 2022 is: “We saw the star in the East, and we came to worship Him.” The scriptural base for the theme comes from the Gospel account of the Magi’s visit to pay homage to Jesus (Matt 2:1-12).
This year’s theme was chosen by the Middle East Council of Churches, in collaboration with the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. Scripture commentators have traditionally seen the figures of the Magi as symbols of diversity of the peoples known at that time. It is suggested the Magi also represent humanity’s universal search for truth, goodness and beauty.
Vatican news reported on 16th January, that Pope Francis has invited all Catholics to participate in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The Pope stated that like the Magi who journeyed to Bethlehem to worship the Messiah, Christians of diverse backgrounds and traditions are pilgrims on the way to unity. Pope Francis said Christians come closer to the goal of unity, by keeping focused on Jesus.
The Pontiff will close the celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in the Vatican, by presiding over Vespers on Tuesday 25th January, the Feast Day of the conversion of St Paul the Apostle.
During the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Christians around the world will gather for prayer. An ecumenical guide suggests daily themes for reflection and prayer, that can be adapted to local liturgical, social and cultural contexts. It is also hoped local churches and communities may be inspired to take further actions towards shared prayer and other initiatives in the service of God’s mission.
“More than ever, in these difficult times, we need a light that shines in the darkness and that light, Christians proclaim, has been manifested in Jesus Christ.” Those who wish to pray privately are also invited to participate knowing they are in communion with others around the world.
Day One: Tuesday 18th January: “We observed His star in the East”. Raise us up and draw us to your perfect light.
Day Two: Wednesday 19th January: “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews?” Humble leadership breaks down walls and builds up with love.
Day Three: Thursday 20th January: “When king Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him”. Christ’s coming brings the light of hope.
Day Four: Friday 21st January: “And you, Bethlehem… are by no means least”. Though small and suffering, we lack nothing.
Day Five: Saturday 22nd January: “Ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising”. Guided by the one Lord.
Day Six: Sunday 23rd January: “They saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid Him homage”. Gathered in worship around the One Lord.
Day Seven: Monday 24th January: “Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh”. We grow in communion as we share the graces our different traditions have received, acknowledging that the source of all our gifts is the Lord.
Day Eight: Tuesday 25th January: “They left for their own country by another road”. Beyond the familiar routes of separation to God’s new paths.
Let us join in prayer in a spirit of Christian unity for the needs of all around the world at this time.
Courtesy: Sr Caroline Vaitkunas RSM, Peace, Ecology and Justice Team member, Columban Mission Centre, Essendon, Australia.