“We express our sympathy for and solidarity with those who are infected and affected by this strange epidemic and pray that an effective and affordable treatment of this disease may soon be found. In the meantime, we strongly urge our people to adopt the highest level of preventive measures to curb the spread of this disease,” write the members of the SECAM Standing Committee, (Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar). The plea came at the end of their meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya, from March 4-5, 2020, in a statement in which they express their concern about the spread of Coronavirus in Africa and in the rest of the world, reported Fides News Agency.
After urging “the faithful to meticulously follow the instructions given by the Civil and Ecclesiastical authorities regarding the virus”, the members of the SECAM Standing Committee ask to pray for people infected and affected by this disease and for the end of the Virus”.
In this regard, they suggest the following prayer:
“Almighty and merciful Father, who show your love to all your creation We come before you asking for a quick control of the Corona Virus currently ravaging our world Hear graciously the prayers we make for those affected by the virus in various parts of the world Grant healing to the sick, eternal life to the dead and consolation to the bereaved families. We pray that an effective medicine to combat the sickness be speedily found. We pray for the relevant Governments and Health Authorities that they take appropriate steps for the good of the people Look upon us in your mercy and forgive us our failings We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen”.
