Pope announces Ecumenical Prayer Vigil for Synod

Image Vatican News

Source: Vatican News

Pope Francis has announced an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil, to be held in September prior to the Synod of Bishops.

Addressing pilgrims in St Peter's Square for the Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis looked ahead to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which takes place from 18 - 25 January.

This year's theme for the Week, is taken from the prophet Isaiah: 'Do good, seek justice' (1:17).

In light of this, Pope Francis asked that we each give thanks to the Lord "who faithfully and patiently guides His people towards full communion, and let us ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten and sustain us with His gifts".

Pope Francis then noted that the path to Christian unity and the Church's synodal conversion are linked. For this reason, he announced an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil, set to take place in St Peter's Square on Saturday 30 September. At the Vigil, he explained, "we will entrust to God the work of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops".

The Pope added that there will be a special programme throughout that weekend for young people, organised by the Taizé Community.

"As of now, I invite brothers and sisters of all Christian denominations to participate in this gathering of the People of God".

LINK

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: www.christianunity.va/content/unitacristiani/en/settimana-di-preghiera-per-l-unita/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-20230/fr.html