Unity in Division: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025

Every one of us knows the divisions that mark our world. Whether we’re leading congregations fractured by politics or navigating ecumenical relationships where common ground feels scarce, we see the effects of disunity daily.

Jesus prayed for us to be one—not so we’d all agree on everything, but so the world would see Him in us (John 17:21). Unity isn’t an add-on to ministry; it’s at the heart of who we are called to be as the Church. This week is a chance to lean into that calling—not with grand gestures, but with prayer, reflection, and honest conversations.

What Does the Week Look Like?

This year’s resources, prepared by the community of Bose in Italy, offer ways to make this week meaningful in your context. You’ll find materials that feel both ancient and fresh, grounded in Scripture and the wisdom of early Christian writers.

Here’s what’s available:

Worship and Prayer

The ecumenical worship service is built around John 11:17-27, where Jesus calls Martha to faith in the face of loss. Imagine your community praying, reflecting on Jesus’ words, and affirming the Nicene Creed together by candlelight—a simple but powerful image of the light of Christ spreading among us​​. More here.

Bible Study and Reflection

The Eight Days of Prayer walk through the themes of the Nicene Creed with daily scripture readings and reflections. Each day is a deeper look at our shared faith and how it can shape our relationships and witness​. More here.

Children and Youth

For younger congregation members, unity may be better understood through hands-on activities. Kids can create murals inspired by the Creed, explore the early Church, or reflect on the roots of their faith through creative projects​. More here.

Why This Matters in Your Context

You may feel like unity isn’t something your congregation talks about much—or maybe it’s a topic that raises more questions than answers. This week isn’t about solving every theological or relational tension. It’s about making space to pray for and with one another, even if we’re not sure where it will lead.

This year’s theme also reminds us of the personal nature of belief. When Jesus asks Martha, “Do you believe this?”, He’s not just testing her faith—He’s calling her to step into a deeper trust in who He is. That’s a question for all of us as ministry leaders, especially in a culture that often feels divided and uncertain.

Learn more and download the resources you need for your context here.

This isn’t about planning another event or ticking a box. It’s about listening to Jesus’ question: “Do you believe this?” Let that question guide you in the weeks ahead, and take this time to pray for the Church—not just your church, but the Church.

If you decide to participate in this year’s Week of Prayer, know you’re joining with believers across Canada and around the world who are praying for the same thing: unity in Christ. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll catch a glimpse of what that unity could look like.