That They All Might Be One…
Living Words from John Paul II
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
Unity is a great gift, a gift that we bear in fragile and breakable vessels of clay.
At the Last Supper, Jesus prayed for his disciples
“that they all might be one as you Father are in me and I in you“ (John 17: 20-21).
Unity is the “treasure” he gave them, embodying two qualities: fidelity to the Gospel and belief that he is sent by the Father, as the Lord indicated.
Many Christian denominations claim to be the true inheritance of Jesus Christ. Though all see themselves as His followers, their beliefs often conflict, creating diverging paths as if Christ were divided among them.
We must sincerely pursue this evangelical duty. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity reminds us and offers a chance to pray together—within our Churches or with Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants. Our hope is to pray with one voice and heart for unity.
St. Paul describes the apostolic ministry as having a ‘treasure in vessels of clay‘ (II Corinthians 4:7), emphasizing that its purpose is to reveal the glory of the Gospel to humanity. He clarifies that they do not focus on preaching themselves but on Christ Jesus the Lord, and that their role is to serve for the sake of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:5).
Yes, unity depends on “vessels of clay” that are fragile and need careful handling. Christians must foster love that overcomes differences through persistent prayer, dialogue, and sincere cooperation to help the poor and vulnerable.
“Holy Father, despite our weakness, you have made us witnesses of hope and faithful disciples of your Son. We carry this treasure in vessels of clay, and we fear we may fail in the face of suffering and evil.”
At times, we even doubt the power of the word of Jesus, who said, “that they all may be one.”
Give us again the experience of the glory that shines on the face of Christ, so that in all our actions, our dedication, and our lives we may proclaim to the world that He is alive and at work among us.
Amen.”
Excerpted from the writings of Pope John Paul II
General Audience
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
The Vatican — Wednesday, 22 January 2003
Read the original Vatican text
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