Sr Svenja Wichmann, from the Community of Grandchamp, delivered this reflection during the online morning prayer for staff of the WCC and sister organizations based at the Ecumenical Centre, on the first day of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2021.
Even as nations continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, final preparations are under way for one of the world’s largest annual prayer observances, traditionally celebrated 18-25 January. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity involves Christian communities from many traditions and all parts of the globe. At a time when public health concerns put a limit on physical gatherings, it provides an opportunity for churches to come together by means of a typically Christian practice that long predates modern transport: prayer.
Pilgrim Prayer, the new edition of the ecumenical prayer cycle, is a unique resource for global spiritual solidarity. Connecting us each week with the unique gifts and challenges of a particular region and context, this spiritual practice creates an annual pilgrimage across the world in prayer, uniting us in the Spirit and in witness and service to justice and peace.
Can you help us create a global picture of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity? In times of pandemic, creative photos and illustrations are more inspirational than ever! Please send us your photo or illustration by 26 January.
World Council of Churches (WCC) interim general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca is inviting the global ecumenical family and friends to join the WCC for a livestreamed public prayer service on 25 January, the final day of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
A new edition of the ecumenical prayer cycle, one of the best-loved resources from the World Council of Churches (WCC), offers a rich treasury of prayers from and intercessions for all countries and regions of the world.
Celebrating a Service of the Great Blessing of the Waters, the World Council of Churches morning prayer for staff in the Ecumenical Centre on 11 January carried messages of hope amid challenging times.
