Today, the US hit a milestone of 300,000 deaths officially attributed to COVID-19. In less than four weeks, 50,000 people have died in this current surge of infections. As the leading cause of death in 2020 it has left a lot of heartbroken families struggling with loss of breadwinners, caregivers and loved ones. Lord, have mercy.
In the midst of this sobering news, the mass vaccination campaign has begun. I am grateful for the scientists who have worked hard to provide a measure of protection for those most vulnerable to serious or deadly infection.
I've found it hard at times to pray extemporaneously during the weariness of the past 10 months as the coronavirus has ravaged the world and radically changed our daily lives. I've found the following prayer a helpful template when words fail me:
A Liturgy During a Pandemic
O Lord our God, accept the fervent prayers of your people as we cry out to you; in the multitude of your mercies, look with compassion upon us and all of your creation; for you are gracious, O lover of souls, giver of life, and to you we give glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.
Gracious God, the comfort of all who sorrow, the strength of all who suffer: Let the cry of those who grieve come to you, that they may find your mercy present with them in all their afflictions; and give us, we pray, the strength to serve them for the sake of him who suffered for us, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
We pray:
-For a swift end to COVID-19.
-For those infected and those who have been exposed; grant them strength, healing, and protection.
-For their loved ones and caretakers; grant them peace, comfort, and endurance.
-For those leading nations; grant them sound minds, courage, and humility.
-For physicians, nurses, technicians, researchers, administrators, and all other healthcare employees around the world; grant them strength by your life-giving Spirit, wisdom, and resources to do the work before them.
-For those who must work, despite the threat of sickness; grant them protection and continued provision.
-For those who have become unemployed or underemployed during this pandemic; grant them comfort, wisdom, and financial provision.
-For churches and their clergy; grant them discernment and creativity to lead and minister in unprecedented circumstances.
-For parents and families; grant them wisdom, patience and joy.
-For children; grant them protection from fear.
-For those for whom home is not a safe haven; grant them refuge.
-For those who are alone; grant them a sense of your nearness and love.
For all who are navigating decisions during this time of uncertainty and fear; grant them your peace. And for all the prayers we cannot voice because our language is insufficient or our ignorance too great; Lord, hear our prayer. Amen.
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