Uniting in Faith: Pope Francis Leads Ecumenical Vigil in Vatican
Christian leaders from various denominations gathered in the Vatican’s Protomartyrs Square on Friday evening to join Pope Francis in celebrating an ecumenical vigil. Thousands of believers from around the world came together to mark the anniversary of the Second Vatican Council and embrace a new era of unity.
By Linda Bordoni
The significance of the date, 11 October, is not a coincidence, as it aligns with the opening of the Second Vatican Council 62 years ago. The Synod’s Secretary General emphasized that the Council ushered in a new ecumenical era, and the current Synod reflects the Church’s continuous journey towards full unity.
Unity and Martyrdom
Pope Francis, in his homily during the ecumenical vigil, focused on the theme of Christian unity and martyrdom, drawing on Jesus’ words: “The glory that you have given me I have given them” (Jn 17:22). He highlighted the martyrs’ witness as a reflection of God’s glory.
Standing in Protomartyrs Square, near the site where St. Peter was martyred, the Pope emphasized the Church’s foundation on the blood of martyrs and the enduring call for unity among Christians.
Unitatis Redintegratio
Referencing the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on Ecumenism, Unitatis Redintegratio, Pope Francis stressed the connection between closeness to Christ and unity among believers. He acknowledged the role of saints and martyrs in sustaining this bond and urged Christians to advance on the ecumenical journey.
Addressing leaders of Christian Churches, the Pope echoed the words of Saint John XXIII, expressing a shared desire for the fulfillment of Christ’s prayer for unity.
Unity and Synodality: A Common Path
Pope Francis discussed the intertwining of Christian unity and synodality, describing synodality as the path for the Church in the third millennium. He emphasized the ecumenical nature of this journey and encouraged all Christians to partake in it.
The Pope emphasized that unity is a gift from the Holy Spirit and called for trust in the process of discovering this unity through the Synod.
Ecumenical prayer vigil in the Vatican
A Journey Toward Harmony, Not Uniformity
Pope Francis emphasized that Christian unity is not about uniformity but about harmony. He highlighted the role of the Holy Spirit in creating harmonious unity among diverse charisms for the benefit of all believers.
Encouraging Christians to progress in love and service, the Pope urged them to trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance towards a multi-faceted unity.
Unity for the Sake of Mission
The Pope underscored the importance of Christian unity for effective mission work, quoting the Gospel of John. He emphasized that division among Christians impedes the Church’s mission to spread the Gospel and highlighted the powerful witness of martyrs who exemplify the unity born of Christ’s sacrifice.
The ecumenical prayer vigil in the Vatican
A Call to Overcome Division
In his closing remarks, Pope Francis expressed hope that the ongoing Synod would pave the way for Christians to overcome divisions hindering their joint witness. He stressed the world’s need for a united Christian front in fulfilling their common mission as disciples of Christ.
Reflecting on Saint Francis of Assisi’s example, the Pope prayed for the Cross of Christ to guide Christians towards full unity with one another and with all creation.
