Christians around the world have been celebrating the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which started last Thursday and ends today, Thursday, the 25th of January.

During this week, different Churches have come together in ecumenical prayer to seek Christian unity.

This year’s theme is “Love the Lord your God … and your neighbour as yourself” (Lk 10:27).

The theme and related material have been prepared by an ecumenical group in Burkina Faso, a country between western Africa and the Sahara Desert.

In Gozo, the Anglican Community together with the Legion of Mary and the Office of Coordination and Support for Ethnic Communities here in Gozo, organised an Ecumenical Service on the occasion of the Octave of Prayer for the Unity of Christian churches, which took place at the Church of the Conventual Franciscan Friars, Victoria, on Wednesday evening.

In the absence of the Bishop of Gozo Anton Teuma who was unwell, Father George Varghese ofmconv, who is responsible for the Indian Community in Gozo, led the Ecumenical Service, he was joined by Can. David Wright, the new Chancellor of the Anglican St Paul’s Pro-Cathedral, Valletta and Chaplain of the Anglican Communion in Malta and Gozo, and Can. Noel Saliba, who is the Coordinator of Ethnic Communities in Gozo within the Secretariat of the Pastoral Ministry of the Diocese.

A reflection by Gozo Bishop Anton Teuma which was read at the Ecumenical Service is shown in full below.The “Good Samaritan” Ecumenism

“Thank you for gathering here today. I am truly honoured to have the opportunity to share with you a timeless and profound message that transcends boundaries and resonates with the core principles of compassion and unity.

Today, I would like to reflect upon the Parable of the Good Samaritan and its relevance in fostering an open and inclusive approach to ecumenism.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan, as told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke (10:29-37), is a narrative that transcends the ages. In this story, a man is left beaten and bruised on the side of the road, ignored by those who should have helped. However, it is a Samaritan, someone considered an outsider and even an enemy by the cultural and religious standards of the time, who stops to show compassion and care.

This parable is not just a moral lesson about kindness; it is a profound call to transcend preconceived notions and prejudices. The Samaritan’s actions challenge us to look beyond societal expectations, religious differences, and cultural divides. It invites us to embrace the universal truth that the essence of humanity lies in our ability to care for one another, irrespective of our backgrounds.

Now, let us draw parallels between the Good Samaritan and the concept of ecumenism. Ecumenism calls us to recognise the common ground that unites Christians across various denominations and traditions. It encourages us to set aside theological differences and collaborate in our shared pursuit of love, justice, and service to humanity.

Just as the Good Samaritan didn’t hesitate to extend a helping hand to a stranger in need, ecumenism challenges us to reach across denominational lines and join hands with our brothers and sisters in faith. It prompts us to engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Through ecumenism, we can discover the richness of diversity within the Christian family, recognising that our shared commitment to love and serve others is more powerful than any theological distinctions that may separate us.

In a world that often seems divided by religious, cultural, and social differences, the Parable of the Good Samaritan serves as a guiding light. It reminds us that compassion knows no boundaries and that love has the power to bridge even the deepest divides.

By embracing the spirit of the Good Samaritan and being open to ecumenism, we can collectively contribute to a world where unity triumphs over discord, and where our shared humanity becomes the focal point that unites us all.

Let us, therefore, go forth inspired by the example of the Good Samaritan, ready to build bridges of understanding, compassion, and unity.

May our collective efforts in ecumenism be a testament to the transformative power of love that transcends all differences.”

Photos: Diocese of Gozo

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