Pope Francis invited the pilgrims and faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: “Do good; seek justice” which will take place from 18 to 25 January, he said after the Angelus prayer this Sunday, 15 January 2023, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.
These were the Pope’s words after the Marian prayer, provided by the Holy See’s Press Office
The Pope’s words
Dear brothers and sisters,
From 18 to 25 January the traditional Week of prayer for Christian Unity will be held. The theme this year is taken from the prophet Isaiah: “Learn to do good; seek justice” (1:17). Let us thank the Lord who guides his people towards full communion with faithfulness and patience, and let us ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us and sustain us with his gifts.
The path towards Christian unity and the path of the synodal conversion of the Church are linked. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to announce that on Saturday 30 January, in Saint Peter’s Square, an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil will take place, with which we will entrust to God the work of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. For the young people who come to the Vigil there will be a special programme throughout the weekend, organized by the Taizé Community. As of now, I invite all brothers and sisters of all the Christian denominations to participate in this gathering of the People of God.
Brothers and sisters, let us not forget the tormented Ukrainian people, who are suffering greatly. Let us stay close to them with our sentiments, our aid, and our prayer.
And I now greet you, Romans and pilgrims gathered here. In particular, I greet the Spanish faithful of Murcia and those of Sciacca in Sicilia. May your visit to the tomb of Peter strengthen your faith and your witness.
I wish you all a good Sunday. Please, do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your meal, and arrivederci!
