This photograph reminds me of great paintings I have seen titled: The Descent from the Cross — Jesus laid out on the ground beneath the cross, the holy mother holding her Son, faithful friends grieving and consoling one another. On September 11, 2001 almost 3000 people lost their lives in three separate terrorist attacks. That night, my little church was filled to overflowing with people praying for the nation, the dead, the injured, the first responders, elected officials and those who were frantic at not hearing from loved ones. It was a night of national grieving and mourning. I'm wondering why there is nothing akin to that now in our country — as of this week more than 170,000 Americans have died of coronavirus in a matter of a few months.
The Episcopal Book of Common Prayer has some of the most beautiful prayers we can pray during these days of so much death, sorrow and loss.
A Prayer for the Dead
O God, who by the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ destroyed death, and brought life and immortality to light: Grant that your servants being raised with Him, may know the strength of his presence, and rejoice in his eternal glory, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God for ever and ever. Amen
For the Deceased Children
O God, whose beloved Son took children into his arms and blessed them: Give us grace to entrust them to your never failing care and love, and bring us all to your heavenly kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
For Mourners
Grant, O Lord, to all who are bereaved the spirit of faith and courage, that they may have strength to meet the days to come with steadfastness and patience; not sorrowing as those without hope, but in thankful remembrance of your great goodness, and in the joyful expectation of eternal life with those they love. And this we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
Almighty God, Father of mercies and giver of comfort: Deal graciously, we pray, with all who mourn; that, casting all their care on you, they may know the consolation of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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But there are those other great losses that many people are suffering and mourning — the loss of businesses, jobs, income, food security, home security and health insurance. There is the loss of meaning and the loss of basic respect, courtesy, good manners and other-referredness that is afflicting the nation lately as well.
A Prayer for Guidance
O God, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and light rises up in darkness for the godly: Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what you have us to do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices, and that in your light we may see light, and in your straight path may not stumble; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For Quiet Confidence
O God of peace, who has taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and in confidence shall be our strength; By the might of your spirit lift us, we pray, to your presence where we may be still and know that you are God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus, your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
