Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: What It Is and When It Takes Place

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is a vital tool for ecumenical movements worldwide, promoting unity among Christians of all denominations in Christ and through Christ.

From 18 to 25 January, Christians across the globe mark a special occasion: a global ecumenical initiative that has been strengthening and consecrating the unity of Christians since 1908. Known as the “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity“, it spans eight days rather than seven. It begins on 18 January, the feast of the Chair of St Peter, and concludes on 25 January, the feast of the Conversion of St Paul. This period was deliberately chosen by Episcopalian clergyman Reverend Paul Wattson, and in 2008, the Week celebrated its centenary.

The idea of dedicating a specific period to ecumenical prayer for Christian unity originated within Protestant circles in the late 18th century. In the mid-19th century, a “Union of Prayer for Unity” during Pentecost gained traction, supported by both the Pope and Anglican bishops.

In 1902, the encyclical “Patriarchal and Synodal Letter of Peace” by Ecumenical Patriarch Joachim III of Constantinople invited Christians worldwide to pray for unity in Christ.

The first celebration of the “Octave of Ecumenical Prayer for Christian Unity” took place in Graymoor, New York. It was followed by numerous other initiatives by clergy and religious movements worldwide, each striving to promote unity. As St Paul urged the Thessalonians, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), and as Jesus taught, “He told them a parable about their need to pray always and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1-8).

When the Week of Prayer Is Celebrated

The Week begins on 18 January, coinciding with one of two feast days dedicated to the “Chair of St Peter” (18 January and 22 February). The “cathedra Petri” doctrine, which emerged in the 3rd century AD, underscores Peter’s dual primacy as both the first Apostle and the first Bishop of Rome, superior to all other bishops and the foundation of spiritual and temporal authority on Earth. Reverend Paul Wattson chose 18 January to initiate the “Octave for Church Unity”, culminating on 25 January, the feast of St Paul’s Conversion.

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In regions like Southern Africa, Central and South America, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, which lie in the Southern Hemisphere, the Week coincides with symbolic dates such as Pentecost.

The Unity of Christians

Ecumenism has long sought to bring together Christians from different churches through initiatives fostering communion and collaboration. Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants share a common faith in the Trinity but remain divided by doctrines and traditions—a centuries-old separation that, while insurmountable in some respects, still allows room for mutual understanding. The ecumenical movement aims for cooperation and dialogue among faiths, striving for a higher spiritual fraternity in Christ and through Christ.

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Christian unity, even among different denominations, is called “koinonía” (communion), defined by the apostolic faith, shared sacramental life, and a mission uniting all believers in Christ to bear witness to the Gospel and God’s Word.

It was French abbot Paul-Irénée Couturier (1881–1953), known as the father of spiritual ecumenism, who infused the “Octave for Christian Unity”—later renamed the “Universal Week of Prayer for Christian Unity”—with the spirit of reconciliation among all Christians, united around Jesus Christ.

The “Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity” (formerly the Secretariat for Promoting Christian Unity) is one of the 16 dicasteries of the Roman Curia. Its principal mission is to foster the ecumenical spirit and Christian unity.

How the Theme for the Week Is Chosen

Initially, the annual theme for the Week of Prayer was decided by “Faith and Order”, an ecumenical Protestant movement advocating for greater cohesion among Christians in evangelisation, doctrinal study, and practical life.

In 1966, the Vatican began officially participating in the event’s organisation. From then on, the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity collaborated with “Faith and Order” to determine themes and prepare materials. “Faith and Order” continued to create resources for Protestants and Orthodox, while the Pontifical Council handled materials for Catholics.

In 1994, two lay ecumenical organisations—the World Alliances of YMCAs and YWCAs—joined the process, making the organisation of the Week of Prayer itself a communion experience.

Each year, a general theme is chosen, accompanied by a biblical passage selected by the main organising bodies. This theme inspires the texts used for prayer and reflection throughout the Week.

Recent Themes of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

– 2023: “Learn to do good, seek justice” (Isaiah 1:17).

– 2022: “We saw his star in the East, and we came to worship him” (Matthew 2:1-12).

– 2021: “Abide in my love, and you shall bear much fruit” (John 15:5-9).

– 2020: “They showed us unusual kindness” (Acts 28:2).

– 2019: “Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:18-20).