January 18-25, 2021
This year’s theme, “Abide in my love… you shall bear much fruit,” derives from the Gospel According to John, Chapter 15. In choosing the 2021 theme, the Monastic Community of Grandchamp in Switzerland desired to share the experience and wisdom of their contemplative life abiding in the love of God and keeping his commandment of “loving one another as He has loved us.” They remind Christians worldwide about the importance of praying for the fruits of closer communion with our brothers and sisters in Christ and greater solidarity with the whole of creation.
Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute takes a leading role each year in disseminating materials for the WPCU and hosting ecumenical programming related to the week's theme. The Graymoor Institute is a ministry of the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, whose founders Paul Wattson and Lurena White established (what was first known as) the Church Unity Octave in 1908.
All are welcome to participate in GEII's Week of Prayer programming. All events will be broadcast on the Friars of the Atonement Facebook page (as well as on the Friars of the Atonement website), and will remain available online for later viewing.
Monday, January 18 - Monday, January 25, 7:00 am AZ: Daily readings and reflections from members of the Atonement community and from distinguished ecumenical guests around the country.
Wednesday, January 27, 7:00 am AZ: A live Catholic Mass from the "Holy Mountain" of Graymoor in commemoration of the Week of Prayer and in recognition of the life and witness of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whom we celebrate as a nation on January 18.
Sunday, January 24, 5:00 pm AZ: A special ecumenical service of word, prayer, and contemplative ritual, based on the Celebration of the Word of God prepared by the Community of Grandchamp for this year's Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Nine co-presiders from across the Christian family join together to pray and reflect on the fruits of Christ's love, accompanied by contributions from The Inter-church Center music program.
