by Margaret Anthony, St Mark's Church, Utley

JUST as we are made in the image of God to be special and unique individuals, the churches in our towns and villages each have a different and distinct character.

Unity is not about making us all the same (although we will hold to the same basic tenets of the Christian faith).

It’s rather about committing ourselves to realise more deeply our common life and mission and taking steps to bring about closer collaboration in areas of witness and service to our needy world.

True unity is a powerful witness and can only be achieved by the Holy Spirit, requiring from us humility and love.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an annual event celebrated internationally. It normally takes place during the week beginning January 18. Different themes are focussed on, and the theme for 2017 is Crossing Boundaries.

Jesus prayed, ‘Father, may they be one in us...so that the world may believe that it was you who sent me.’ (John 17:20-21).

With this in mind, Keighley Churches Together (KCT) has organised some gatherings at different venues and times during the week. They are:

Next Thursday (Jan 19) – the Shared Church, Church Green, Keighley, at noon, followed by lunch together at the Welcome Cafe if desired

Saturday January 21 – Christharvest, Airedale Business Centre, Lawkholme Lane, Keighley, at 10am

Tuesday January 24 – St Anne’s Catholic Centre, Spring Gardens Lane, Keighley, at 7.30pm

We would love to welcome you to one or more of these events during the week. The meetings will only last about half an hour and will be led by a member of the host church, followed by refreshments and fellowship.

Do feel free to come and join us at one or more of these events. You never know what may happen as a result!