The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity invites Christians around the world to pause and focus on what unites us: our shared faith in Jesus Christ. This year, the theme, “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26), draws us into deeper reflection on the hope we have in the resurrection and challenges us to grow in unity as one body.
Each day, we’ll explore a unique theme inspired by the Nicene Creed. The purpose of these reflections is to connect us to the heart of our faith and encourage us to consider our role in building bridges within and beyond our communities.
Follow Along Daily
We’ll be sharing daily reflections and thought-provoking questions on our social media channels to guide your prayer and contemplation. You’re invited to engage, share your own reflections, and join a worldwide community praying for Christian unity. Be sure to follow along on:
- Facebook: @olasisters
- Instagram: @olasistersireland
Below you will find an overview of the themes and questions for each day, along with insights to help you prepare.
Day 1: God’s Loving Care
Theme: Reflect on God’s love and care for all creation.
God is the Creator and sustainer of all life, a source of love who holds all things together. Ambrose of Milan writes, “What can be more lovely than to approach and cleave to the source of life?” Today, we reflect on how God’s care reaches into every part of our lives and the world around us.
Reflection Questions:
- How have you experienced God’s loving care?
- What hinders us from seeing every person as a child of God?
- How does acknowledging God as the Creator shape our relationships?
Day 2: Creation as God’s Work
Theme: Marvel at the Creator’s hand in all things.
Creation reveals God’s power and providence. Gregory the Great reminds us, “All things were made out of nothing and would sink back into nothing if the Creator did not sustain them.” As we reflect on creation, we are challenged to see our role as stewards and to act with care and reverence for the world.
Reflection Questions:
- Where do you see God’s presence in creation?
- How can we better care for creation and one another?
- What lessons can we learn from spending time in nature?
Day 3: The Incarnation of the Word
Theme: Christ came to dwell among us.
The Incarnation is the profound mystery of God becoming human, uniting heaven and earth. Ambrose of Milan reflects, “Lift your eyes to the Creator, who has redeemed you through the Word.” In Christ, we see God’s love in action and are called to reflect that love in our lives.
Reflection Questions:
- How does faith in the Incarnation shape your daily life?
- When have you felt Christ’s comforting presence?
- How can you embody Christ’s love in your interactions?
Day 4: Christ’s Victory Over Death
Theme: In Christ’s resurrection, we find hope.
Through the cross and resurrection, Christ has destroyed death and opened the path to eternal life. Irenaeus of Lyon writes, “His light appeared and dispelled the darkness of the prison, sanctified our beginning, and destroyed death.” Today’s reflection centers on how this victory shapes our approach to life and death.
Reflection Questions:
- How does belief in Christ’s victory over death change your perspective?
- Where do you see signs of Christ’s companionship in your life?
- How can you share the hope of resurrection with others?
Day 5: The Spirit of Life and Joy
Theme: The Spirit renews and sustains us.
The Holy Spirit draws us together, filling our lives with love and joy. Augustine of Hippo writes, “The Spirit pours into our hearts the love with which we are called to love the Creator and one another.” Today, reflect on how the Spirit works within you and your community.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you experience the Spirit’s presence in your life?
- What brings you joy, and how is it connected to the Spirit?
- How can you join in the Spirit’s work of unity?
Day 6: The Light of the Church
Theme: United, we are one light to the world.
The Church, though diverse in its members, is united as one body in Christ. Cyprian of Carthage describes it as “one light, unified and undivided.” How does this unity call us to live and act as witnesses of Christ?
Reflection Questions:
- How does the Church share Christ’s light in your community?
- How have divisions among Christians affected your faith journey?
- How can we embody the Church’s mission of unity and peace?
Day 7: New Life Through Baptism
Theme: Baptism unites us in Christ’s death and resurrection.
Through baptism, we are reborn as children of God. Ambrose of Milan reflects, “Lift your eyes to the Creator, who has redeemed you through baptism.” This reflection reminds us of the transformative power of baptism and its role in uniting us as one family in Christ.
Reflection Questions:
- What does your baptism mean to you today?
- How can baptism inspire us to seek unity among Christians?
- How can we support others on their baptismal journey?
Day 8: Hope in God’s Promise
Theme: We are united in the hope of God’s Kingdom.
The hope of God’s promise sustains us through life’s trials and unites us as we await the fullness of God’s Kingdom. Augustine of Hippo writes, “By hope, God nourishes us, strengthens us, and gives us consolation.” Today’s reflection calls us to live in that hope and share it with others.
Reflection Questions:
- How does hope in God’s promise sustain you?
- What signs of God’s Kingdom do you see in the world today?
- How can you share the hope of God’s Kingdom with others?
A Journey Toward Unity
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity reminds us that, though we are diverse, we are united in faith and hope. As you reflect on these themes and questions, may you be inspired to draw closer to Christ and to others.
Be sure to follow our social media channels for daily reflections and join this global community of prayer and faith. Together, we stand as one in Christ.