Editor’s Note: Rabbi Dr. Michael Leo Samuel of Temple Beth Shalom of Chula Vista has composed the following special prayer for recitation during the time of the coronavirus pandemic. He offers it to any person or institution that cares to use it.
A Coronavirus Prayer
Oh God Who dwells among us as in Heaven,
grant us wisdom, understanding and knowledge;
help us eradicate the coronavirus that threatens all people.
Assist the angels of healing,
the doctors, nurses, first-responders, and caregivers!
Grant them the insight, the intuition,
humility and steadfast spirit they need at this time
Endow and fortify the spirit of those who are sick with the virus
with inner strength and faith; may they receive the proper
medical care that they require for a speedy recovery.
As we walk through the valley of darkness,
we will not fear evil; because You are with us.
Help us conquer our anxieties and fears of what we do not know.
Let us come together in the spirit of a common humanity;
Let us work on creating the ties that bond our families
and communities together.
We pray for Divine Compassion in fighting this pandemic.
Give us the faith and vision to persevere
And the wisdom to learn the valuable lessons
that we all belong to one human family;
we need each other’s support.
And for those who have lost loved ones,
Let us as a community to offer our love and support.
May God’s Shekhinah look after the survivors,
And give them the strength they need at this time.
The Lord is our Shepherd
We shall not want.
Healer of all flesh!
Hearer of all prayer!
And let us say, “Amen!”
—Rabbi Michael Leo Samuel
Temple Beth Shalom, Chula Vista