Unity

Christian Aid’s great strength is found in its ecumenical nature, supported and valued by so many of us from many different churches and denominations. In today’s reading, Jesus speaks about the importance of being united and in agreement in order to share in his work and to serve him and his kingdom effectively.

I have been aware of communities in Wales where the only truly ecumenical activity taking place has been local support for Christian Aid, bringing together not only Christians from different churches and traditions but from across the different language communities as well, both Welsh and English. Right from the beginning, Christian Aid has been a great instrument for Christian unity in Britain and Ireland. Moreover, as we work together, we not only find a oneness with each other close to home, but also with the people across the world we’re seeking to support and empower, whoever they are and wherever they may be.

We might want to consider finding out more about a church of a different denomination to our own, perhaps by attending a service or asking someone who’s a member of another Christian tradition to tell us more about what’s important to them, as a way to grow closer and stronger in our oneness in Christ.

God our Creator, Three-in-One and One-in-Three, Jesus prayed that we might be one, that the world might believe. Thank you for the unity we share in the work of Christian Aid. Strengthen us together so that we may work more effectively for your kingdom of justice and peace.

Amen.

Adapted from a contribution by the Rev Dr Jennie Hurd, Chair of the Cymru Synod of the Methodist Church in Wales at the time of writing.