Welcome to a heartwarming encounter where Pope Francis greeted a delegation from the Hong Kong Christian Council and led them in a prayer for Christian Unity.
It was a moment filled with joy and unity as the Pope welcomed the delegation inside the Paul VI Hall. The Hong Kong Christian Council, an ecumenical organization founded in 1954, is dedicated to fostering unity among Protestant Christians in the region, and is affiliated with the World Council of Churches and the Christian Conference of Asia.
Inspired by the late Orthodox Bishop Zizioulas, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of prayer and collaboration among Christians. He quoted Bishop Zizioulas, who believed that true Christian unity would only be achieved on the day of the final judgment, but in the meantime, Christians must pray and work together.
The Pope humorously recalled a suggestion from the late Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople, Athenagoras I, who proposed putting theologians on an island to argue amongst themselves while the Church moves forward in peace.
Reflecting on the bond of Christian unity through Baptism, Pope Francis reminded the delegation that despite having many enemies in the world, they are all friends as fellow Christians. He acknowledged the reality of persecution faced by the Church and the martyrs who have given their lives for their faith.
Bringing to mind Pope St. Paul VI’s visit to Uganda in 1969, Pope Francis highlighted the unity found in the shared martyrdom of Catholic and Anglican martyrs. He spoke of the two baptisms Christians receive: one through water and the other through blood, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for one’s faith.
In a beautiful conclusion, Pope Francis invited the delegation to join him in the Lord’s Prayer, symbolizing a moment of unity and solidarity among Christian believers.
As we reflect on this special encounter, let us be inspired to pray and work together for the cause of Christian unity, following the guidance and wisdom shared by Pope Francis and the members of the Hong Kong Christian Council.
