"In order to unite with one another, we must love one another; in order to love one another, we must know one another; in order to know one another, we must go and meet one another."

These words, known as the "Testament of Cardinal Mercier", are an impetus for the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

A special service will be held at the Wesley Methodist Church tomorrow to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Churches around the world traditionally mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity from Janaury 18 to Monday in the octave between the feasts of St. Peter and St. Paul, although some local contexts choose to celebrate it around the Feast of Pentecost.

The global organisers are the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity and the World Council of Churches. This gathering is traditionally seen as the beginning of the modern ecumenical movement, which seeks the visible unity of the world's divided churches.

This event has been observed by the East End churches for the past 50 years, although it has been observed worldwide for more than 100 years. The organiser for the local festivities is Rev. David Raths of St. Peter's Church. He is excited about the possibilities that this event will bring. Invitations have been extended to the Christian churches around the island and they hope to have about 250-300 persons in attendance.

"We are hoping to bring as many Christians together as possible," he says. "That doesn't happen often enough. This is a chance to talk to one another."

Many denominations are to come together for the event, including the Anglican, Catholic, Baptist, AME, Baptist and Salvation Army congregations, to name a few.

"Everyone has been very supportive," remarks Rev. Raths.

Rev. Calvin Stone of Wesley Methodist Church states: "We are firm supporters of having Christians come together regardless of denominational bounds. Oneness in Christ is an important element for us."

Music will feature such groups as the Apex 4 and The Richard Allen AME Ladies Choir. The women of Wesley will be providing tea and coffee for refreshments.

For the enhancement of the fellowship service, and if you are able to contribute to the refreshment hour, please bring a plate of cookies or treats to share.