As we answer the challenge to show ‘unusual kindness’ to one another, and especially to those most vulnerable and in need, may we be sustained by this year’s experiences of shared prayer, biblical reflection, and fellowship.
Do you have a long-standing WPCU tradition in your community? Are you thinking of starting one?
You might be inspired by the story of Christians on a Journey, a lay-led ecumenical group in Burlington, Ontario, whose Week of Prayer celebrations reflect the Christian unity they live throughout the year.
This January, they brought together 8 local churches for 8 days of Week of Prayer services and fellowship. Starting with a big dream and small, practical steps, Christians on a Journey transformed their community in just a few years. They meet regularly to pray for one another, their ministries, and their city. They also share news and fellowship and encourage folks in participating churches to visit, worship, and engage with one another.
Anneke Kramer, who started the group, says:
“We wanted, in some small way, to answer Jesus’s prayer in John 17, ‘that they may be one’. The moment that will stay with me most this year is seeing all the ordained leaders of our churches standing together, shoulder to shoulder, at one of the services. This is a visible token of the unity we are all striving for and the bond that we have already created.”
Asked to share some advice on how to begin, another leader of the group, Frank Malick, says:
“Start small and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. If only two churches want to come together, start there and others will follow.” Anneke agrees, “Take the first step. Write a letter. Call a pastor. Visit the church next door and chat to folks during coffee hour. Download the Week of Prayer materials and share them when you visit. Just start.”
Read the full story of Christians on a Journey and their WPCU experience.
See photos from other 2020 WPCU celebrations across Canada.
Want to share your WPCU stories and photos via our newsletter and website? Email communications@councilofchurches.ca and we’ll connect with you!
Want to stay connected with the Week of Prayer in Canada throughout the year? Subscribe to the dedicated WPCU newsletter.