Dear Members and Friends of Faith:

Today, March 11, marks one year since the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic by the World Health Organization.  Since that time, nearly 120 million people around the world have contracted the virus, and over 2.6 million people have died from it.  Additional stresses on the economy, our health care system, our personal and professional relationships, and on our mental health due to lockdowns and shutdowns have exacted a heavy toll, often on the most vulnerable among us.  I offer this prayer, adapted from the prayers of our hymnal, Evangelical Lutheran Worship, as we mark this difficult day:

Eternal God, amid the turmoil and changes in the world that this past year has brought us, your love has been steadfast.  As we mark this first anniversary of the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, be to us a sure guardian and solid presence.  Guide the leaders of the world with your wisdom as vaccines continue to be rolled out, comfort those most affected by the pandemic in their distress, and grant us a confident hope in your desire of abundant life for all your children; for we pray in Jesus’ name.  Amen

The prayers at worship this Sunday will also focus on the one year anniversary of the declaration of the pandemic.  Please find a printable order of worship attached.

Peace,

Pastor Brian