January 18, 2012. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI spoke about the unity of Christians during the general audience in the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall. It marked the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, a worldwide fellowship of over 300 Churches that try to find a common witness.



Benedict XVI
“Today begins the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which, for over a century, is celebrated annually by Christians of all Churches and Ecclesial Communities.”

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was originally founded in 1908 by a priest named Paul Wattson and then received the blessing of Pope Pius X.

Benedict XVI explained the importance not only of its history but also its role today.  

Benedict XVI
“Faith in Christ and interior conversion, both individual and communal, must constantly accompany our prayer for Christian unity.”

Before some 8,000 pilgrims, the pope also noted that this week of unity plays an important role in the New Evangelization.


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