Christian unity

- Deacon Norbert Gaudet

January 11, 2026

key points from this story:

• Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
• Jesus prayed that all may be one
• Unity called core Christian identity
• One Lord, one faith, one baptism
• St. Paul’s message urges harmony
• Faith communities called to reflect love

With the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (WPCU) coming January 18th to the 25th, I thought I would focus my message on Christian Unity. Before Jesus was arrested, he prayed for his disciples, for all who believe, the ones who would carry on his teaching, the love of God - that's us! What did Jesus say about Unity? In chapter 17 of John's Gospel, we hear Jesus praying “that all may be one”.

He prayed “I pray not only for them (his disciples), but also for those who believe in me because of their message. I pray that they may all be one. Father! May they be in us, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they be one, so that the world will believe that you sent me.” (John 17:20-21, GNB)

In the resources of WPCU, it says “Unity is a divine mandate at the core of our Christian identity, more that simply an ideal. It represents the essence of the Church's calling – a call to reflect the harmonious oneness of our life in Christ amidst our diversity. This unity is central to our mission and is sustained by the profound love of Jesus Christ, who has set before us a unified purpose”.

We have to ask ourselves “Are we all following Jesus or are we following another human being whether our priest, our pastor, ourselves or whoever?”. As St. Paul says “There is only one Lord”. In his letter to the Ephesians, he says “Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.... There is one body and one Spirit, just as there is one hope to which God has called you. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; there is one God and Father of all mankind, who is Lord of all, works through all, and is in all.” (Eph 4:3-6, GNB). We are all following one God. Why any division and not just unity?

From WPCU resources, “In a world where the Body of Christ is wounded by division within and between traditions and confessions, the Apostle Paul's call to unity is addressed to each of us, not only as separated church communities, but also as individuals within our communities. By living in unity, we not only witness to the love and power of our Lord Jesus Christ but also embody the essence of His teachings. As we support one another and celebrate our diverse gifts and talents, let us reflect the heart of Christ and further His work on earth”.

I end with a message from St. Paul to the Ephesians. “Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another.” (Eph 4:2).

Happy New Year and Best Wishes.