Is Unity Possible?

“That all may be one as we are one.” 

This week we marked the annual Prayer for Christian Unity. I don’ t know when this special week began, but it is certainly an essential concern for Christians everywhere. Christ established one Church and intended that all would follow his teachings.

But in the 16th century, the Protestant Reformation changed religious beliefs and practices when Martin Luther nailed his ninety-five theses as a reaction against the selling of indulgences by the Catholic Church.

I grew up believing that the Catholic Church was the only true church because it was founded by Jesus Christ. Now I think most Christians believe in the essentials of faith and could become one Church.

Today it is good to see many churches uniting in promoting peace and justice and joining together in special celebrations like Martin Luther King Day, the Epiphany, and even some feasts of Mary. Ministers of some churches exchange pulpits and retreat days with each other.

Christians who are serious about their faith in God could all join together in worship. All Churches have been marred by failings of pastors and priests. But we need to remember how compassionate Jesus was to Peter, who denied knowing him, and Mary Magdalen, another sinner.

Let us continue to pray for Christian Unity.

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