Novena Prayer for Church Unity

Jesus Christ with the Fathers of the Council of Nicaea, symbol of unity of faith and doctrine in the Church

The Novena Prayer for Church Unity is a powerful Catholic devotion prayed for the unity, peace, and faithfulness of the Church. Rooted in the words of Jesus Christ, this novena invites us to pray that the Church may remain united in faith, charity, and obedience to God’s will.

Traditionally prayed from January 18 to January 25, this novena coincides with a special time of prayer for unity within the Church. Through this devotion, Catholics ask Christ, the Prince of Peace, to strengthen the bonds that unite the faithful and to heal divisions through faith and love.

What Is Church Unity?

Church unity refers to the spiritual and visible unity of the Church founded by Jesus Christ. It is unity in:

faith
sacraments
charity
obedience to God’s will

Jesus prayed for this unity when He said:

“That they may all be one.” (John 17:21)

This novena echoes that prayer, asking the Lord to grant peace and unity to His Church according to His divine will.

Why Pray the Novena for Church Unity?

This novena is prayed especially for:

Unity within the Church
Peace among the faithful
Strengthening of faith
Healing of divisions and misunderstandings
Fidelity to Christ and His teachings

Praying for unity is an act of love for the Church and a response to Christ’s own prayer.

How to Pray This Novena

Pray for nine consecutive days, from January 18 to January 25.
Recite the prayer below each day with faith and devotion.
Offer your intentions for peace, unity, and the good of the Church.

Novena Prayer for Church Unity

(Traditional Prayer)

Recite for 9 Consecutive Days

O Lord Jesus Christ,
who said unto Your Apostles,
“Peace I leave with you,
My peace I give unto you,”
regard not our sins,
but the faith of Your Church,
and grant unto her that peace and unity
which are agreeable to Your will,
who live and reign,
God,
forever and ever.
Amen.

O Lord, increase in us the faith.

Pray Five Our Fathers,
Five Hail Marys,
and Five Glory Be’s.

When Is This Novena Prayed?

Novena Dates: January 18 – January 25
Focus: Unity and peace within the Church

Although traditionally prayed during this period, this novena may also be prayed at any time of the year when seeking unity, peace, and renewal of faith.