Easter, April 12, 2020

Easter, April 12, 2020

After entering the tomb of Jesus and not understanding the Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead, the disciples returned home. On this Easter Day we find ourselves somewhat confused, confined in our homes, unable to go into the world to search for Jesus.  Despite being physically distanced, we join our voices in prayer knowing that God hears our pleas.

1. For the Church, although our buildings are empty, may our hearts be full as we rejoice in the Good News that Jesus has risen from the dead. We pray to the Lord.
2. That people throughout the world who have seen their countries and lives devastated by disease, war, drought, and poverty may draw hope from the Resurrection of Jesus which brings light to those in darkness. We pray to the Lord.
3. That we may strengthen our belief in Jesus with the clear knowledge “that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.” We pray to the Lord.
4. That on this day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad, grateful for his goodness, his mercy, and his love through all the trials we experience in our lives. We pray to the Lord.
5. That as the beloved disciple “saw and believed” upon entering the tomb, we may be aware of the signs of God’s presence and actions in our lives and upon seeing them, come to believe. We pray to the Lord.
6. That as we are isolated in our homes by the coronavirus, we may draw strength by uniting our confinement with that of Jesus in the tomb and look to the Resurrection as a sign of hope, release, and recovery. We pray to the Lord.
7. That like Mary Magdalene who witnessed the crucifixion and still went out in the darkness of her sorrow, we may find ways to serve the poor, the unemployed, and the hungry in the midst of our own disappointments and sadness. We pray to the Lord.
8. That Fr. Christopher and all victims of injustice, hatred, and abuse may not be entombed by hatred, anger, and self-pity, but may be inspired by the Resurrection to strive for a future with their lives restored. We pray to the Lord.
9. That the imprisoned, those alone in hospitals and nursing homes, and those isolated in their homes will remain hopeful and unite themselves with Jesus in the Resurrection that overcomes all loneliness and sense of abandonment. We pray to the Lord.
10. That those who work in essential jobs providing health care to the ill, staffing in our stores, and services for those in need will overcome their fears, be protected in their efforts, supported in their communities, and heartened by their generous sacrifices. We pray to the Lord.
11. That the sick and suffering and their families, friends, and doctors will form supportive communities that provide encouragement and hope as they work to overcome disease. We pray to the Lord.
12. That those who have died will be welcomed with joy into the everlasting life of heaven where death has been swept away for all eternity. We pray to the Lord.

O God, on this Easter Day we offer our petitions with joyful hope that you will hear them and answer all our needs, providing consolation to those who have suffered with your Son and see the Resurrection as your promise that evil is always overcome by your love for humanity.  We make our prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.