Christian Unity Week: Thottam Church Brings Faith Communities Together

Udupi, January 20, 2025: Celebrating the spirit of togetherness, leaders and devotees from various Christian denominations gathered at Thottam Sant Annamma Church on Sunday, January 19, to celebrate Christian Unity Week and reaffirm their shared faith in Christ. The event featured prayers, songs, and a procession led by religious leaders, emphasizing shared faith and harmony. Fr. Denis ceremoniously enthroned the Bible, and leaders from different denominations lit a lamp together, symbolizing their unity in Christ.

Fr. Cyril Lobo, Director of the Bible Commission of the Diocese of Udupi, highlighted the significance of Christian Unity Week in fostering brotherhood, urging participants to cherish the goodness of other churches and come together in prayer and fellowship. Rev. Praveen Maben, pastor of CSI Christ Mahima Church, described Unity Week as an inspiration to unite diverse perspectives in Christ. Kumar Sallins, pastor of UBM Ebenezer Church, emphasized Jesus as the source of life, calling for love, forgiveness, and collaboration to build a harmonious society.

Fr. Denis D’Sa of Thottam Church led the unity prayer and noted the significance of this year’s 1700th anniversary of Christian Unity Week. He stressed the importance of prayer meetings and collective efforts in fostering peace and love. Choirs from CSI Temple Malpe, UBM Ebenezer Church Malpe, and Thottam Sant Annamma Church enriched the gathering with prayerful hymns.

Church leaders, patrons, and devotees actively participated in the program, which concluded with Gilbert Pinto expressing gratitude with the vote of thanks while Gracie Pinto eloquently hosted the program. The event reflected the enduring message of unity and love in a pluralistic society. As participants departed, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose to embrace unity in Christ and act as beacons of truth, compassion, and hope in their daily lives.

By Catholic Connect Reporter