Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Today the Church has begun the annual World Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity. As we observe the various struggles and divisions among some Christian denominations today the thought and even hope of unity might seem quite distant. Nevertheless, painful division over the centuries has not prevented Christians from praying for healing and striving for the vision which informed the prayer of Jesus as found in the Gospel of John:

“I have given them the glory you gave me that they may be one, as we are one- I living in them, you living in me- that their unity may be complete. So shall the world know that you sent me, and that you loved them as you loved me.” John 17:22

Although there were ecumenical efforts in the mid 19th century, the first formal movement for declaring a week of common prayer for Church unity was launched in 1908 by two American Episcopalians, Fr. Paul Wattson and Sr. Lurana White. The movement grew through the years and was embraced by subsequent popes. There were also wonderful developments in the nature of ecumenism flowing from the Second Vatican Council. Traditionally the octave of prayer concludes with the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul on January 25. The theme of the 2021 Week promoting Christian Unity is “Abide in my love.. you shall bear much fruit.” cf. Jn 15:5-9

These are good days to recognize the pain of separation and division for whatever reason among our Christian brothers and sisters in the Lord. The desire and prayer for Christian unity may indeed be the healing balm needed so badly today in our broken world.

Some reflection questions:

1. When praying for the intentions of Christian Unity, how can I grow in respect and understanding for all my sisters and brothers in the Lord?
2. How can the growth of Christian Unity make a positive impact on secular society?

Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB