On Monday 19 January 2026, Churches Together in the Merseyside Region organised a special event to mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
Representatives from ten different Christian denominations gathered for a day of reflection, discussion and shared worship, celebrating the unity that binds Christians together.
St Edward’s College was proud to be represented by three Sixth Form students, Mayan, Dominic and Trinita, as well as Lay Chaplain, Mr Joseph Richardson and Priest Chaplain, Rev. Dr Taras Khomych, who gave a talk entitled “‘One Body and One Spirit (Eph 4:4)’: Spirituality of Time in Byzantine Christianity.” For the students, this was their first experience of an ecumenical gathering of this kind — and it proved to be both inspiring and memorable.
The day focused on themes of interculturalism and unity, encouraging participants to reflect on how faith is lived and expressed across different Christian traditions. Students took part in table discussions, shared activities and moments of prayer alongside representatives from across the region.
Student Mayan reflected:
“This was my first time attending a Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and I found it to be very insightful. It made me appreciate how different Christian traditions can strengthen our shared faith. I was especially fascinated with learning about the Greek ideas of kairos and chronos, how measured time can become something sacred, which gave me a new perspective on prayer. I look forward to attending similar events in the future.”
Student Trinita also shared:
“This was my first experience of an event like this, and I really appreciated the theme of spirituality and time, particularly the use of iconography. I found it especially meaningful to share thoughts and ideas within our table groups. I also enjoyed the opening activity where we connected with others through shared characteristics, as it created a welcoming and reflective atmosphere.”
Revd. Dr. James Tebbutt and Revd. Caroline Ainger attended on behalf of our District. Revd. David Goodwin, an ecumenical officer in the Liverpool Plus Mission Area, and Revd Clement Matariano, a minister in the Liverpool South Circuit, also took part in the day.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for students to experience the richness and diversity of Christian worship and thought, while exploring their views of unity within the wider Church. We are grateful to Churches Together in Merseyside Region for organising such a meaningful and thought-provoking event.