During this unexpected event of voluntary quarantine, we have the opportunity to pray our common prayers together in new ways. We always have available the Book of Common Prayer (BCPonline.org) to use for our worship at home individually or as a family. Any of our various forms of the “Prayers of the People” (BCP 383ff) include the categories for the universal church, the nation and all in authority, the welfare of the world, the concerns of the community, those who suffer from any grief or trouble, and for the departed.
During this international crisis, we offer the following petitions for your use, and invite you to adapt them as our current situation evolves.
In addition to the “Prayers of the People” please add the following:
O Lord, we remember before you all those:
Who are affected by the COVID-19 Virus, here in our country as well as in all places in your world. Give them strength in their suffering, and quiet calm as they recover;
Scientists, physicians, nurses, and healthcare workers who are steadfastly committed to finding effective treatments;
Families and individuals for whom this situation forces an economic hardship. Open channels to allow resources to reach them, and grant wisdom and creativity to our society to enable a compassionate response to those most deeply affected economically and socially;
Who live alone and for whom this pandemic increases their vulnerability. Make us mindful of ways to communicate with them so that their loneliness is assuaged and their sense of belonging is increased;
In positions of public trust, that they would use their position and influence to calm the fears and reduce the anxiety by a commitment to truth, integrity, and the public welfare.
“This is another day, O Lord. We do not know what it will bring forth, but make us ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If we are to stand up, help us to stand bravely. If we are to sit still, help us to sit quietly. If we are to lie low, help us to do it patiently. And if we are to do nothing, let us do nothing gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give us the Spirit of Jesus.” Amen. (adapted from the prayer “In the Morning” for the “Ministration to the Sick” on page 461 in the BCP.
Note: We will continue to remember specific needs in our own parish life but are especially sensitive to issues of privacy. Therefore, please email Stuart (stuart@gracechurchgainesville.org) or Cynthia (cynthia@gracechurchgainesville.org) with specific names and be assured that we will pray for them during this time. Once we resume worshipping together in the Nave, we will return to our practice of naming aloud those who have asked to be remembered in our common prayers.