Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2026
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is traditionally observed from 18th to 25th January – the octave of St Peter and St Paul. However, some areas observe it at Pentecost or some other time. This ecumenical celebration provides an opportunity to focus our prayers on Christian unity and to know that we are joining with international siblings in Christ. WPCU is also a great chance to speak about and experience Christian unity personally, in your village, town or county.
This year WPCU takes Ephesians 4 v 1-13 as its central text which includes the words “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling.” (Ephesians 4:4).
The World Council of Churches prayers and reflections for WPCU 2026 have been prepared by the faithful of the Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Church, along with their brothers and sisters of the Armenian Catholic and Evangelical Churches. These resources draw upon centuries-old traditions of prayer used by the Armenian people, along with hymns that originated in the ancient monasteries and churches of Armenia, some of which date as far back as the fourth century.
Each year the international resources are adapted by the Britain and Ireland writers group and extra material is often written, such as meditations for each of the 8 days. The WPCU is an important time for the Church to reflect on the progress being made on the ecumenical journey. CTBI’s coordination of the week is part of its key objective to strengthen ecumenical engagement. Find out more at www.ctbi.org.uk/weekofprayer.