On the eve of his death, Jesus prayed to his Father for his disciples, that they might all be one. But today’s reality seems to be ever-increasing division; between the rich and poor nations of the world, between the wealthy and the excluded in our own society, between opposing political positions. The Church founded by Christ is divided, too.

Today is Communications Sunday, when we are asked to pray for those who work in the media, and especially for those whose task is to communicate the Catholic faith. But as long as we are divided, our witness to Christ is compromised. We will not achieve unity by suppressing disagreement, or by trying to silence those who differ from us. We can only move towards unity by deepening our love of God, sharing in the love of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This will lead us to a greater love and respect for our neighbour – a readiness to accept others and learn from them.

With me in them and you in me, may they be so completely one that the world will realise that it was you who sent me,and that I have loved them as much as you loved me. (John 17:23)