Bishop Brennan has invited parishes to ring church bells in the Diocese of Ferns on Saint Patrick’s Day as a call to prayer and solidarity at this time of the coronavirus pandemic.
Bishop Brennan said, “I am asking churches in the Diocese of Ferns to ring their bells for three minutes at 11.00am on Saint Patrick’s Day. The ringing of the bells on our National Feast Day will serve as a call to pray in solidarity and hope in these uncertain times.”
Bishop Brennan is also asking members of adoration groups throughout the diocese to recite a specially composed prayer for the the duration of the coronavirus crisis during their weekly adoration gatherings in churches.
Copies of the prayer will be available in churches for visitors.
The prayer was composed by Kerry Weber, executive editor, America Magazine and permission has been granted to the Diocese of Ferns to distribute it for recitation among the faithful.
Speaking to Ferns Diocese earlier today, Kerry said – “ Many thanks for reaching out and for your very kind note. I’m honored you’d like to distribute the prayer…
it’s nice to hear that the prayer has made its way over to you, though of course I wish it were not a necessary one. It’s good to be united in prayer during this time. Thanks again for sharing the prayer; I’m so glad you’ve found it useful.”
PRAYER
Jesus Christ, you travelled through towns and villages “curing every disease and illness.” At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global spread of the coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love.
Heal those who are sick with the virus. May they regain their strength and health through quality medical care.
Heal us from our fear, which prevents nations from working together and neighbours from helping one another.
Heal us from our pride, which can make us claim invulnerability to a disease that knows no borders.
Jesus Christ, healer of all, stay by our side in this time of uncertainty and sorrow.
Be with those who have died from the virus. May they be at rest with you in your eternal peace.
Be with the families of those who are sick or have died. As they worry and grieve, defend them from illness and despair. May they know your peace.
Be with the doctors, nurses, researchers and all medical professionals who seek to heal and help those affected and who put themselves at risk in the process. May they know your protection and peace.
Be with the leaders of all nations. Give them the foresight to act with charity and true concern for the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. Give them the wisdom to invest in long-term solutions that will help prepare for or prevent future outbreaks. May they know your peace, as they work together to achieve it on earth.
Whether we are home or abroad, surrounded by many people suffering from this illness or only a few, Jesus Christ, stay with us as we endure and mourn, persist and prepare. In place of our anxiety, give us your peace.
Jesus Christ, heal us.
Ends
