TODAY is the mid-point of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which is traditionally observed between January 18 and 25.
The week is celebrated internationally and coordinated by the World Council of Churches with the Catholic Church.
This year's theme - "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit" - is based on John 15:1-17 and is supported by materials prepared by the Monastic Community of Grandchamp in Switzerland.
Catholic Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin and his Church of Ireland counterpart John McDowell have also recorded a video to mark the week.
In a meditation for today, the sisters at Grandchamp consider the theme of 'praying together':
"Prayer can be solitary or shared with others. It can express wonder, complaint, intercession, thanksgiving or simple silence.
"Sometimes the desire to pray is there, but one has the feeling of not being able to do so. Turning to Jesus and saying to him, 'teach me', can pave the way. Our desire itself is already prayer.
"Getting together in a group offers us support. Through hymns, words and silence, communion is created.
"If we pray with Christians of other traditions, we may be surprised to feel united by a bond of friendship that comes from the One who is beyond all division.
"The forms may vary, but it is the same Spirit that brings us together."
Resources and information about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity are available from Churches Together in Britain and Ireland.
