Prayer for Protection from Disease and Fear

Many writings in the old testament reflect the belief that God sends plagues, earthquakes, storms, and the like to punish or test people. As our understanding of God’s love and mercy has evolved, some of us no longer believe that God inflicts suffering. Rather, we realize that suffering is an inescapable consequence of being human in a physical world. And yet there is no aspect of being human that God does not use to draw us toward deeper love and greater life, including suffering.

The following prayer for protection from disease and fear affirms that we can rely on God’s loving presence even in times of fear and disease. I hope it brings you comfort and unites you with others during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

       X Prayer for Protection  X

                 

                  from Disease and Fear

“Blessed are you, Lord our God, who watches

    over us in times of trial and danger.”

            (Ed Hays, Prayers for the Domestic Church)

Although we are living in the shadow

    of disease and fear, we do not falter,

    for we trust that your constant care

    cradles and strengthens us.

Your Holy Spirit calls us to pray in

    confidence for those in special need

    of your care and protection today:

   X All health care workers and their

          families

   X Elderly persons who are isolated

          in their homes or in care facilities

   X All unemployed workers whose

          jobs have been suspended

   X Families caring for children and elders

   X Administrators, government leaders,

          and all persons working to manage

          the crisis

May they and all people in our fragile world

    draw on your forces of goodness and love

    that dwell within us and around us.

Tender and merciful God, help us to trust

     in your life that flows through us,

     your goodness that shields us,

     your love that calls us to serve each other.

We ask this in the name of Jesus who taught

     us to pray to you, our loving Father, with

     confidence in your care and compassion.

XAMEN

                                      Jennifer Halling, OSB

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