Mangaluru, January 19, 2026:

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was solemnly inaugurated on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Karnataka Theological College. The prayer service marked the beginning of the annual unity octave, bringing together Christians from different denominations to pray for unity, harmony, and mutual understanding.

The inaugural service was graced by Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Mangaluru Latin Catholic Diocese, who officially inaugurated the week-long observance by lighting the ceremonial lamp. His presence added significance to the ecumenical gathering, highlighting the Church’s commitment to fostering Christian unity.

The prayer service commenced with an opening hymn, setting a reverent and prayerful atmosphere. Rev. Dr H. M. Waston extended a warm word of welcome to the gathering, followed by a brief invocation prayer seeking God’s guidance and blessings for the unity octave.

The service was prayerfully led by Rev. Fr Rajesh M. Rosario, Rector of St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, along with priests from the Church of South India (CSI) and the Believers Church of India, reflecting the true ecumenical spirit of the occasion. The congregation together recited the Nicene Creed, professing their shared Christian faith.

The Scripture readings and Gospel proclamation were moments of deep spiritual reflection, enriching the prayer service and drawing the congregation closer in faith.

Fr Jencil Alva, Professor at St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, delivered a thought-provoking reflection centred on the theme of Christian unity, emphasizing the call to walk together in love, dialogue, and mutual respect despite denominational differences.

The prayer service concluded with words of greeting and encouragement from Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, who appreciated the ecumenical participation and urged all present to continue working towards visible unity among Christians.

Priests from various Christian denominations, religious sisters from different congregations and students of St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary and Karnataka Theological College actively participated in the inaugural prayer service.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity will be observed across various institutions in the coming days and will conclude on January 26, 2026, at St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangaluru.