By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Jan 25, 2025 / 17:31 pm
Pope Francis posed a profound question to Christians worldwide during an ecumenical vespers service: “Do you believe this?” This question comes as momentum builds for Catholics and Orthodox to consider celebrating Easter on the same date in this historic anniversary year.
Speaking at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls at the conclusion of the 58th Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the pontiff reflected on Christ’s encounter with Martha following the death of Lazarus, emphasizing that hope “rises from the ashes of death.”
“This tender encounter between Jesus and Martha teaches us that even in times of deep desolation, we are not alone and we can continue to hope,” the pope said during his homily, which centered on the week’s theme “Do you believe this?” from John 11:26.
January 25 marked the solemn conclusion of this year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, a significant event that Pope Francis tied to the ongoing Jubilee Year celebrations.
In his address, the Pope emphasized the message of hope that lies at the core of the Jubilee, referencing the words of the Apostle Paul in Romans 5:5 that “hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.”
During a gathering with journalists on the same day, Pope Francis urged them to share “stories of hope,” echoing the theme of hope that runs through his recent message for the 59th World Day of Social Communications.
At the vespers service, the Pope highlighted the Jubilee Year’s overarching focus on hope, noting its alignment with the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, which played a crucial role in unifying the Body of Christ despite historical divisions.
In his remarks, Cardinal Kurt Koch, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, recalled the Pope’s commitment to unity, citing his 2014 visit to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in Constantinople and reaffirming the Catholic Church’s stance on achieving unity through a common faith.
The quest for unity has seen significant progress, with discussions about establishing a common Easter date gaining traction. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople recently confirmed ongoing conversations on this matter, potentially leading to a unified Easter celebration starting in 2025.
