Special Prayer on Thursday, 14^th May 2020

Day for peoples of all religions to pray, fast and do charitable works to end coronavirus. The initiative came from The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, who proposes that everyone, regardless of religion, participate. Pope Francis accepted the proposal: “To implore God to help humanity overcome the coronavirus pandemic.”

During this Coronavirus pandemic, many are tempted to fear, anxiety, and perhaps even despair. Some have lost their precious lives, some have lost those whom they love, some have suffered through the debilitating effects of this illness, some have lost their jobs, their income, and most have encountered much disruption to the normal flow of their daily lives.

“Our wolrd is facing a great danger that threatens the lives of millions of people around the world due to the growing spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic,” says the letter of invitation from the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity which is extended to all religious leaders and peoples around the world.

The invitation continues with a call to believers, that they implore GOD “to lift this pandemic off us and the entire world, to rescue us all from this adversity, to inspire scientists to find a cure that can turn back this disease, to save the whole world from the health, economic, and human repercussions of this serious pandemic.”

Every crisis in life also an opportunity to turn to our beloved Saviour in trust  and complete abandonment so as to rest in His merciful hands. To rest in the hands of God means we are secure, despite the uncertainty of life. It means we are free to love God and others; despite the challenges we face. It means we raise our eyes to Heaven, rather than look down in fear.

“The world needs unity and solidarity across borders to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. IN addition to humble prayer and supplication to God, our faiths inspire us to persevere in supporting one another, health workers, and scientists who are working tirelessly for medical solutions.”

Blessing:

God of all consolation, your Son calmed the wind and rain, and healed the sick of mind and body. Through your fatherly care, grant us your protection from illness and help us to stand firm in the midst of danger. Grant your healing to those who are ill and bring this time of sickness to a swift end.

Guide us, that we might show your compassion, and live your justice: never losing hope or seeking our own good at the expense of another. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Prayer to Our Lady of Prompt Succour

O Mary, Mother of God, through the years, your people have called on your intercession in times of epidemic and illness. We call on you, now, as our mother and ask that you pray for us, that we might find healing and refuge, and a quick end to this time of illness. Be to us truly Our Lady of Prompt Succour and draw us ever closer to your Son, the source of all healing and consolation. Our Lady of Prompt Succour hasten to help us. Amen.