The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally observed from the 18th to the 25th January – the octave of St. Peter and St. Paul and is jointly supported by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the World Council of Churches (WCC).
The theme of for 2021 was “Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit”, which is based on John 15:1-17; and expresses Christian vocation to prayer, reconciliation and unity as believers and the human family.
“I am the least of the Apostles because I persecuted the Church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:9-10). St.Paul understood that there was a real and transcendent union between the living Christ in eternity and His followers: Jesus lives and is present in them and they live in Him. In the light of the Word of God that guided the week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Assam Christian Forum (ACF) organised an event to conclude the unity octave.
The function was held at Christ the Bearer of Good News Cathedral Guwahati on January 26, 2021. The purpose of the gathering was to conclude the Unity Octave and also to pray for India on Republic Day. Praise and worship was led by Guwahati Community Church and the anchors of the programme were Pastor Konya Konyak and Mr. Amrit Goldsmith.
The welcome address was given by Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad which was followed by Bible reading by Fr Mathew Kalladickal OFM Cap.
Exhortations were given by Archbishop John Moolachira, Pastor Arup Saikia, Mr.Allen Brooks, Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil (Archbishop Emeritus of Guwahati), and Bishop Michael Herenz, CNI Diocese of North East India. The Church leaders present on the occasion unanimously said that all believers in Christ are “called to declare the wonderful deeds of God” (1 Peter 2:9), beyond the differences.
Archbishop John in his exhortation said, “Like Saint Paul and Saint Peter, we too cannot but proclaim the merciful love that has conquered and transformed us. While we are on the way to full communion between us, we can now develop many forms of collaboration to foster Christian unity. And by walking and working together, we realize that we are already united in the Lord’s name.”
Rev. Arup Saikia opined that unity among Christians is a Gospel value and a truth desired by Jesus and his immediate followers of the early apostolic Church. However, this unity is a challenge due to the geographical and cultural diversities of humanity.
In the words of Bishop Michael Herenz, “Christianity is a global and transcultural reality, a brilliant and yet challenging phenomenon. It’s a challenge that Christians must continually engage. One of the best reasons for this challenge is that Jesus passionately prayed that his followers would be one and may be brought to complete unity” (John 17:21, 23). And Jesus himself gives the reason “So that the world may believe that you have sent me,”. The unity rooted in Christ’s own unity is with the Father and Holy Spirit.
“A unified body of Christians is also one of the strongest fabric of evidence of the truth of the Gospel. This is especially true in a world as fragmented and divisive. The challenges we face, the spiritual battles we fight, demand that we embrace the truth that we “are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28)”, said Archbishop Thomas.
Melodious Gospel hymns from St. Joseph’s Church, Panbazar, Mar Gregorious Orthodox Syrian Church Guwahati, Kahilipara Baptist Church, Guwahati Baptist Church Christian Endeavour Society, Arunachal Christian Fellowship Guwahati and Assam Presbyterian Church brought the best of Gospel music and youth in the city of Guwahati to praise and worship God.
The leaders holding the lighted candle and the congregation which sang the famous hymn ‘We are one in Christ’ acknowledged with joy that the reality of Christian life is always a call to God and humanity. When Christians of different Churches listen to the Word of God together and seek to put it into practice, they truly take important steps towards unity. And it is not only the call that unites us; the mission of God also brings us together, to declare to all the wonderful deeds of God.
Prayers for Christian unity, India and for various intentions were led by Sr. Isabelle, Fr.Joseph Mappilaparambil CMF, Rev. Billy Lalrinchhana, Pastor Juby John, Major Lalthlamuani, Pastor Chubala Sangma, Pastor Anthony and Johny Tanty.
A vote of thanks was pronounced by Rev. Abhisekh John and the programme came to an end with National Anthem and benediction by Archbishop John Moolachira.