Worship:

Reading: John 17:20-26
Read the passage aloud again, then re-read silently along with the Commentary. Reflect on the personal questions individually before sharing your thoughts in groups of three.

Commentary:
Jesus' prayer for unity means more than a shallow 'belonging'. It is a deep unity patterned on the unity between the Father and Son. Jesus wants all his disciples to share the same glory the Father gave to him. This is the destiny meant for all Christians. But it is based on the free acceptance of God's offer of love. It is not a question of knowing about God, but of knowing him in a deep interpersonal relationship with God. It involves loving and embracing God and all God's daughters and sons. (Baranowski)

Personal Reflection:

2. Is there anyone with whom you feel that deep oneness?

3. Has there ever been a time when you have felt unity with the Father and Son?
    Do you feel that deep oneness with God at the moment?

4. As Jesus prays for us, his disciples today, what can you do to
    cooperate with his prayer?

When you have finished sharing your reflections, offer any personal insights to the group as a whole. Then discuss the following questions together.

Life Focus:
1. For Jesus 'divine glory' meant not only moments of 'triumph'
    but also the crucifixion (12:23-33).
    How does the Christian community reflect all aspects of 'divine glory'
    in today's world?

2. In what ways does that 'united witness' enable
    'the world to believe that the Father sent Jesus' (v21)?

3. How can that witness of unity be developed with Christians
    in your local community?

Review Time:
Recall anything from previous weeks which needs attention.

Prayer Time:
Thank God for your group where you are able to share something of yourself.
Pray for the unity of Christians around the world.
Finish by saying the Lords Prayer together, the prayer which has united Christians throughout the centuries and across denominational boundaries.

Next Meeting:
Fix date and venue of next meeting.