As Canada mourns the lives lost to the COVID-19 pandemic today, we commend the use of this prayer, written by General Secretary Pastor Peter Noteboom, for reflection and intercession in your hearts and communities.
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (Romans 8:35)
Loving God,
Today many Canadians are pausing to remember the collective loss. We remember the family members, friends, community members and fellow citizens who have suffered from COVID-19 and those who have passed away.
We earnestly pray for healing, for the continued efforts to relieve human suffering, and for perseverance throughout these challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are struck by the dedication and cooperation of virologists, biochemists, epidemiologists, and many other scientists working urgently in laboratories across Canada and around the world to develop tests, treatments, and vaccines to protect us from the ongoing ravages of COVID-19.
Now, with a shift in public attention, we also pray for a just transition and recovery:
That public policy puts people’s health and well-being first, no exceptions.
That we strengthen the social safety net, especially for people in long-term care homes.
That we experience solidarity and equity across communities, generations, and borders, also in the availability of vaccines for all.
That we uphold Indigenous rights, work in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, and prioritize access to immunization programs with all vulnerable populations.
May we respond with an abundance of hope, gratitude and solidarity, trusting in the loving and ever merciful God, the source of all hope.
Amen.
Pastor Peter Noteboom
General Secretary
The Canadian Council of Churches