Shahzad Lawrence is praying for peace
Shahzad Lawrence is praying for peace

A Living Testimony of Christian Oneness, Shared Faith, and Hope for a Peaceful Future

Unity Week 2026 in Gujranwala

The importance of Unity Week lies in its strong biblical and mora foundation, emphasizing that despite denominational differences, Christians are one body in Christ. This week serves as a reminder that unity strengthens faith, amplifies the Christian witness in society, andnurtures mutual respect among different traditions.

Unity Week was observed with deep religious zeal, spiritual devotion, and collective enthusiasm in Gujranwala, reflecting a powerful message of Christian unity, harmony, and shared witness. In this connection, a joint prayer program was organized at the request of Rev. Haroon Ajmal at Christ Church near Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala, on Friday, 23rd January 2026, commencing at 10:00 am. The event became a living example of ecumenical cooperation, where believers and church leadership gathered under one roof to glorify God and reaffirm their commitment to unity in Christ.

Participants' picture outside Christ Church
Participants' picture outside Christ Church
Shahzad Lawrence addressing at Unity Week
Shahzad Lawrence addressing at Unity Week

The prayer service was graced by the presence of respected and dedicated church leaders, including Rev. Fr. Emmanuel, Parish Priest of Saint Mark Parish, Marriam Saddiqua Town,
Chand Da Qila; Brother Shahfaqat; Catechist Ishqa Barkat; Inderyas; Rev. Arif Siraj, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan; and Mr. Shahzad Lawrence, a well-known peace and interfaith harmony activist. Clergy and representatives from the Roman Catholic Church, the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, and the Church of Pakistan actively participated, offering prayers, reflections, and words of encouragement centered on unity, love, forgiveness, and service to humanity.

The importance of Unity Week lies in its strong biblical and moral foundation, emphasizing that despite denominational differences, Christians are one body in Christ. This week serves as a reminder that unity strengthens faith, amplifies the Christian witness in society, and nurtures mutual respect among different traditions. The collective celebration by church leaders in Gujranwala highlighted a mature and inclusive approach, where cooperation replaced division and fellowship overcame historical boundaries. Their joint participation sent a clear message that unity is not merely symbolic but a practical and spiritual responsibility.

The advantages of Christian unity in Gujranwala are profound and far-reaching. In a city marked by religious diversity, unity among churches promotes peaceful coexistence, social stability,  moral resilience, community trust-building, and interfaith harmony. A united Christian community can better address social challenges, support marginalized groups, encourage youth engagement, and present a strong, positive
image of Christianity rooted in love and service rather than division.

Participant's picture in Christ Church
Participant's picture in Christ Church
A photo of participants of the Unity Week
A group photo of the participants of the Unity Week

The possible outcomes and long-term impact of Unity Week are highly promising. Such initiatives can lead to stronger ecumenical collaboration, joint social welfare projects, shared advocacy for minority rights, enhanced dialogue platforms, and sustainable peace- building efforts. Unity Week also inspires futur generations to value cooperation, tolerance, and shared responsibility, ensuring that the message of Christ’s love continues to shape society in constructive ways.

In conclusion, Unity Week 2026 in Gujranwala was not just an event but a spiritual movement of togetherness, collective prayer, and shared mission, leaving a lasting impact on church leadership, congregations, and the wider community.

Participants gathered in a sacred prayer circle and offered their individual prayers with deep devotion and humility. Each voice reflected a sincere longing for peace, harmony, unity, and strengthening of faith among communities. The atmosphere remained spiritually uplifting as clergy and faithful alike prayed for mutual understanding, love, and respect across churches and society. These personal prayers, though offered individually, formed a collective spiritual expression, symbolizing shared hope and common purpose. The prayer circle beautifully demonstrated that unity begins with sincere hearts, trusting God to guide Gujranwala toward peace, tolerance, and lasting harmony.