Hyderabad: Christians from the twin cities observed week-long prayers across churches as part of the annual unity Octave, which concluded here on Friday. Incidentally, this was the first time that independent churches joined the event, which began on January 18 at the Lutheran Church, ECIL.
Launching the proceedings, Dr D.H. Paul director, Ecumenism and Dialogue, HRC, said, “The endeavour to bring together all churches began way back in 1910. It was a nice gesture that all independent churches participated and all services attracted full attendance.”
During the third day services at St Mary’s Basilica, Secunderabad, Cardinal Poola Anthony, Archbishop of Hyderabad, said, “Christian unity should not just be restricted to words. We all need to prove ourselves with our actions.”
Fr Raju Alex, deputy secretary of Telugu Catholic Bishops Councils, said, “The event was successful as all churches extended their cooperation. The participation of laymen was marked more this year. The message delivered during each service was about unity, being merciful and humble.”
On the concluding day, all churches and councils which took part and greeted each other, including Telugu Catholic bishops councils, Telangana Council of Churches, Telangana State Federation of Churches, United Christmas Celebrations Committee, Twin Cities Pastors Fellowship and Telugu Christian Churches.
