European churches come together virtually to pray for Christian Unity

Press Release No: 09/21
21 May 2021
Brussels

Hosted by the European Parliament, the Conference of European Churches and the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) held an online Ecumenical Prayer for Christian Unity and for the Future of Europe on 21 May 2021.

The prayer was held under the theme “Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit” John 15.

The virtual prayer hosted by MEP Patrizia Toia, featured a special message from His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, reflecting on the European values of peace and justice, and the role of the European churches, especially amid the trying pandemic.

Please click below to watch full message from the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

The First Vice-President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola, responsible for the implementation of Article 17 TFEU, in her message stressed the values of peace, stability and development. She appreciated the role of the churches in providing solace and comfort to the communities through innovative ways during the pandemic. She shared how she looks forward to churches’ participation in the upcoming Conference on the Future of Europe.

The prayer was led by CEC and COMECE presidents, Rev. Christian Krieger and H. Em. Card. Jean-Claude Hollerich SJ, who highlighted the importance of unity in challenging times. They prayed together to overcome divisions and foster reconciliation across Europe.

The participants emphasised the significance of the Charta Œcumenica – Guidelines for the Growing Cooperation among Churches in Europe on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary, affirming the role of the landmark document in developing fellowship among European churches.

Please click below to watch the full recording of the prayer service

Traditionally the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is celebrated in January, between the feasts of St Peter and St Paul. In the southern hemisphere, however, churches often find other days to celebrate it, for example around Pentecost, which is also a symbolic date for unity.

Learn more about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

For more information or an interview, please contact:

Naveen Qayyum
Communication Officer
Conference of European Churches
Rue Joseph II, 174 B-1000 Brussels
Tel. +32 486 75 82 36
E-mail: naveen@cec-kek.be
Website: www.ceceurope.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ceceurope
Twitter: @ceceurope
You Tube: Conference of European Churches – YouTube
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