Pray during the Pandemic

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https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/gabrielsanchez/helpers-coronavirus-quarantine-medical-workers-pictures

Prayer for a Time of Pandemic 

Jesus Christ, you traveled through towns and villages “curing every disease and illness.” At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid with your healing love.

Heal the sick, Lord Christ.  May they regain strength and health. 

Heal the fear which prevents nations and neighbors from helping one another. 

Heal the pride which can make us claim invulnerability to a disease that knows no borders. 

Jesus Christ, healer of all, stay by our side in this time of uncertainty. 

Be with those who are quarantined and hospitalized. Keep them company while we cannot. Grant them patience and strength. 

Be with those whose finances are affected. Help them find resources to take care of themselves and their families. 

Be with the elderly and vulnerable. Help all to avoid carelessness so they may remain whole. 

Be with our neighbors who lack housing. When they depend on the generosity, may they receive a double helping. 

Be with those who feel overwhelmed by the news cycle. Help them to discern what matters most and what to set aside. 

Be with all who have died, and grant them your grace. 

Be with the bereaved, and defend them from despair. 

Be with all health professionals, and give them your wisdom and protection.

Be with our leaders, especially our public health officials, our governor, our president, and the World Health Organization. Give them the foresight to act with charity and concern for the long-term well-being of all. 

Lord Jesus Christ, give us your peace.

Help us to be vigilant and generous.

Give us the courage to be your witnesses by our actions.

Teach us to pray honestly and expectantly, and when our prayers seem to fail, bring us to pray again and again; for you are our help and our shield, now and forever. Amen.

(Adapted from the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, by Kerry Webber. Sent via the Episcopal Diocese of Eastern and Western Diocese of Michigan Newsletter.)