Press Releases19 Jan 25

Joint video message for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: ‘Do you believe this?’

The 2025 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which is taking place between Saturday, 18th January, and Saturday, 25th January, is being marked by Archbishops John McDowell and Eamon Martin in a brief video reflection on the theme of ‘Do you believe this?’  The archbishops discuss the vital role that faith plays in sustaining hope amidst personal and societal challenges today; they also reflect on the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, sharing insights into their own work as Archbishops of Armagh.

The chosen theme for this year focuses on the question posed by Jesus to Martha in John 11:26. Resources for this special Week of Prayer have been provided by the community of Bose, an ecumenical monastery of brothers and sisters in northern Italy, who generously drafted the prayers and reflections for this year.  The archbishops are encouraging all to reflect on this year’s theme and to make use of prayer resources which are available at this link from Churches Together in Britain and Ireland.

Photos and details of events held can be posted to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity wall on Twitter/X by using the hashtag #wpcuwall – participants are also encouraged to use the hashtag #wpcu2025 for this and other platforms.  The video reflection is available on the Church of Ireland’s website and social media platforms.

With thanks to Janet Forbes from the Archdiocese of Armagh for video production.