Speaking after the Angelus on 18 January, Pope Leo XIV recalled the origins of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which begins today and dates back two centuries. The initiative, he noted, was “strongly encouraged” by Pope Leo XIII and, exactly one hundred years ago, was enriched for the first time by the Suggestions for the Octave of Prayer for the Unity of Christians.

The Pope recalled that the theme of this year’s Week is taken from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians: ““There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling.” (Eph 4:4) The prayers and reflections, he said, were prepared by an ecumenical group coordinated by the Department for Interreligious Relations of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

“I therefore invite all Catholic communities,” Pope Leo XIV said, “to intensify their prayer during these days for the full, visible unity of all Christians.”

The Holy Father added that this call to communion will accompany reflection throughout the Week, which will conclude on Sunday, 25 January. As is customary on the Solemnity of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Pope Leo XIV will preside at the celebration of Vespers at 5.30pm Rome time in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls.