Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2026
Each year, Christians around the world are invited to come together in prayer for the unity of all believers. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is a special time when churches of many traditions unite to reflect on Jesus’ prayer “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe” (John 17:21).
When is it celebrated?
In Australia and throughout the Southern Hemisphere, this week is observed between Ascension and Pentecost. In 2026, it will take place from 17–24 May.
The 2026 Theme
This year’s theme is:
“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling” (Ephesians 4:4).
This theme calls us to rediscover the unity we already share in Christ, and to live it more visibly in our relationships with one another.
A Global Christian Initiative
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is a worldwide ecumenical observance, with resources prepared collaboratively by different Christian communities each year.
For 2026, prayers and reflections were prepared by the Armenian Apostolic Church, together with Armenian Catholic and Evangelical communities, and are shared internationally through the World Council of Churches and the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity.
Eight Days of Prayer for Unity
The week traditionally includes eight days of Scripture, reflection, and prayer. Below is a parish-friendly version you can use personally or in groups:
Day 1 – Called to Hope
Scripture: Ephesians 4:4
Lord God, you call us into one hope in Christ. Help us to trust in your promises and to walk together as one people, united in faith and love.
Prayer: Lord, make us one in hope.
Day 2 – One Body in Christ
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12
Jesus, you gather us into one body with many members. Teach us to honour each other’s gifts and to serve together for your Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, make us one body in you.
Day 3 – Walking in Humility
Scripture: Ephesians 4:2
Spirit of God, soften our hearts. Help us to listen with humility and patience, especially when we encounter difference.
Prayer: Lord, teach us humility and love.
Day 4 – Reconciliation and Healing
Scripture: Colossians 3:13–14
Merciful Father, forgive our divisions and heal the wounds of the past. May we become instruments of your peace.
Prayer: Lord, reconcile your Church.
Day 5 – Unity in Diversity
Scripture: Romans 12:4–5
Creator God, you delight in diversity. Help us to see unity not as uniformity, but as harmony in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, unite us in our diversity.
Day 6 – Witness to the World
Scripture: John 17:21
Lord Jesus, may our unity be a sign to the world of your love. Make us credible witnesses of your Gospel.
Prayer: Lord, let our unity proclaim your love.
Day 7 – Led by the Spirit
Scripture: Galatians 5:25
Holy Spirit, guide us on the path of unity. Lead our churches to deeper communion and shared mission.
Prayer: Come, Holy Spirit, unite us.
Day 8 – One in Christ
Scripture: Galatians 3:28
Loving God, bring us ever closer to full unity, where all divisions are overcome in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, make your Church one.
differnt ways of taking part in this week
We invite all parishioners to:
Pray these daily prayers during the week
Attend any local ecumenical gatherings
Reach out in friendship to Christians of other traditions
Include intentions for unity in personal and family prayer
In a world marked by division, the unity of Christians is a powerful witness to hope. As we pray this week, may we grow closer to Christ, and to one another, trusting that the Holy Spirit is leading us towards the unity for which Jesus prayed.
“There is one body and one Spirit… one hope to which we are called.” (Ephesians 4:4)