Faith leaders from numerous Christian denominations came together at St. Bernadette Church May 26 to celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge was joined by Richmond Bishop Barry Knestout as well as Rt. Rev. Mark Bourlakas, assistant bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia; Rev. Dr. Philip Hirsch, Bishop ELCA Metro DC Synod; Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia, Bishop Suffragan, Episcopal Church Military Services and Federal Ministries; Elder Eric Baxter, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Rev. Nicolas Kazarian, Ecumenical Officer of the Greek Orthodox Church of America; Rev. Kirk Nave, UMC District Superintendent Northern Virginia; Michael Sonnenberg, ELCA Federal Chaplaincy Ministries; Rev. Aaron Dunn, ecumenical officer of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington; Father Don Rooney, pastor at St. Bernadette Church and ecumenical officer of the Arlington diocese; and Rev. Christopher Weidner, Ecumenical Officer of ELCA Metro DC Synod. Ibrahim Anli, executive director of the Rumi Forum, was an interfaith observer.
The hourlong prayer service focused on unity. The theme was “Light from light for light,” using ancient prayers and music from the Armenian tradition.
Father Rooney has organized these events in the past but said the May 26 event was the largest representation of Metro DC and Virginia religious leaders.
“Christian unity may seem more elusive than in the past, but one thing is certain. Nothing will come about if we are not together when the Holy Spirit comes,” he said. “We must be together.”
Bishop Hirsh offered the homily and reminded Christians to always have hope. Christian hope isn’t always cheerful, but we live with the faith knowing Jesus will accomplish what we ourselves are unable to do.
Shaffrey is director of diocesan media relations.
