Ecumenism focus of prayer week

Nearly a century ago, in New York's Hudson Valley, the annual observance of a "Week of Prayer for Christian Unity" began. Roman Catholics and other Christians have continued to pray together over the years, and the Week of Prayer has become a worldwide celebration.

The 1997 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from Jan. 18-25, with the theme "Be Reconciled to God" (2 Cor. 5:16-21). Celebrations in the Albany Diocese include "Connect '97," an "expression of Christian faith," Jan. 20 at the Empire State Convention Center in Albany (see related articles on page 3.)

However, diocesan officials are quick to note that ecumenical activities need not end when the week does. "Rooted in Faith," a pamphlet prepared by the diocesan Commission for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, and materials released by the Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute in Garrison offer these suggestions for keeping the week alive:

* Gather people from your parish to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in your community. Ask interested leaders and members of other local congregations for ideas.

* Be inclusive in your ecumenical activities, reaching out to various denominations in your area. Schedule at least one "ecumenical celebration of the Word of God" to which all are invited.

* Ask your parish about having pulpit and/or choir exchanges with other local churches.

* Hold a special collection in your parish of money, food or clothing to benefit a local ecumenical organization; ask parishioners to volunteer with such organizations.

* Expand your parish bulletin to include not only your parish's activities, but also those of other local churches.

* Join parish youth, senior citizens', men's and other groups with those of neighboring churches; or sponsor joint Bible study sessions.

* Organize tours of area churches with guides who can explain each church's traditions, history and architecture.

* Call local churches to find out what ecumenical activities are offered (see our calendar, page 31). In addition to organizations like the Capital Area Council of Churches, Troy Area United Ministries and Schenectady Inner City Ministry, many area Catholic parishes participate in "covenant relationships" with other Christian churches, sponsoring religious services, food pantries, thrift stores, daycare centers, Bloodmobiles, special meals, and ministry to youth, the elderly, the homeless and others.

(If you are interested in fostering ecumenism, call your parish or the diocesan ecumenical commission at 453-6660.)

(01-16-97) [[In-content Ad]]