Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

In a powerful homily delivered during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, the Bishop addressed the historical divisions within the Catholic Church and called for healing and unity among all Christian communities. Drawing upon the lessons from the Protestant Reformation, the Bishop emphasized the importance of repentance, reform, and fidelity to the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

Reflecting on the centuries of fragmentation and schism that followed the Reformation, the Bishop highlighted the need for all Christians to come together as one flock. He acknowledged that while each community may see itself as faithful to Christ, none are perfect and each has its own weaknesses that require healing.

"The risen Jesus, our Lord and Savior, continues to reach out to each of these sheep to bind up the wounded, to heal the sick, to seek out the stray, and to lead them all to good pastures," the Bishop stated.

The Bishop reminded the congregation that unity can be achieved through prayer, worship, and service. Despite different styles of worship, raising hearts and minds to God in praise is a shared value among all Christians. Working together in service to the poor, sick, and marginalized also fosters unity, as does confronting social issues such as domestic violence, war, and a throw-away culture.

However, the Bishop acknowledged that despite these efforts, it is still easy for Christians to go their own ways. He likened this struggle to that of Peter, who proclaimed his faithfulness to Jesus but later denied him. The Bishop cautioned against complacency and emphasized the need for continuous self-examination and the willingness to be uncomfortable in order to foster growth and healing.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was likened to a family gathering, where diverse members come together despite their differences. Just as a family strengthens its ties during these gatherings, the Bishop highlighted the importance of Christians coming together to strengthen their unity.

Each church was called upon to sit before the risen Jesus, acknowledging their own failures and denials. The Bishop emphasized the question that Jesus poses to all Christians: "Do you love me?" He reminded the congregation that true love is not simply expressed in words, but in the hard work of caring for and feeding the sheep.

In conclusion, the Bishop urged all Christians to embrace their shared mission and to work towards healing the wounds and divisions that still exist within the Church. "So that there may be one flock, one Shepherd," he declared.

The words of the Bishop serve as a powerful reminder of the need for unity and healing within the Christian community. As Christians around the world reflect on these words during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, may they be inspired to come together, to love one another, and to work towards a more united and faithful Church.