Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

182. At every celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the Church prays for unity and peace, mindful of the Jesus' prayer. "May they all be one. Father, may they be one in us, as you are in me and I am in you, so that the world may believe it was you who sent me" (John 17, 21). The Missale Romanum contains three Masses--among those for various needs--"for Christian unity". The same intention is remembered in the intercessions of the Liturgy of the Hours".

In deference to the sensibilities of the "separated brethren", expressions of popular piety should take into account the principle of ecumenism. Effectively, "change of heart and holiness of life, along with public and private prayer for the unity of Christians, should be regarded as the soul of the whole ecumenical movement, and merits the name 'spiritual ecumenism'". The encounter of Catholics with Christians from other Churches or ecclesial communities affords a special occasion for common prayer for the grace of Christian unity, to offer to God their common anxieties, to give thanks to God and to implore his assistance. "Common prayer is particularly recommended during the "Week of Prayer for Christian Unity" or during the period between Ascension and Pentecost". Prayer for Christian unity also carries several indulgences.

From the Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy

Novena for Church Unity
January 18 to 25

O Lord Jesus Christ, who said unto Your Apostles, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you," regard not our sins, but the faith of Your church, and grant unto her that peace and unity which are agreeable to Your will, who live and reign, God, forever and ever. Amen.

O Lord, increase in us the faith.

Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father (five times)

Novena in Honor of St. John Bosco
January 23 to 31 - Feast of St. John Bosco January 31

Father and Teacher of the Young

In need of special help, I appeal with confidence to you, Saint John Bosco, for I require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly...
(add your personal intentions here)

May you, who on earth had such great devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and who always had compassion for those who were suffering, obtain from Jesus and His Heavenly Mother the grace I now request, and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.

Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father

The Feast of the Purification Novena
January 24 to February 1 - Feast of the Purification Febuary 2

O Blessed Mother of God, who went up to the Temple according to the law with your offering of little white doves, pray for me that I too may keep the law and be pure in heart like you.

Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father (five times)

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