March 3, 2020: The chief of the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that "we are in uncharted territory" with more than 90,000 cases (and counting ...) of Covid19 worldwide. As of this writing, 73 countries and territories have documented cases.

January 29, 2020. The Associated Press reports that there are more than 5,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 132 deaths in China. Other countries have begun evacuating their citizens from Wuhan, the center of the outbreak since it first appeared in December. The symptoms include cough, fever, and pneumonia. As of this writing, cases have been reported in the United States, Australia, Cambodia, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. The outbreak has affected international sporting events and travel, including travel within China for the Chinese New Year.

And so we pray this news:

God of Mercy, be with the tens of thousands of people who have contracted the coronavirus around the world. Comfort those whose loved ones have died. Bring peace to those living with uncertainty after perhaps being exposed to the virus. Give patience to those who are quarantined and unable to move freely in their communities.

Wise and Faithful Guide, watch over and protect other people from catching this deadly virus. Strengthen those who are risking their own lives to care for sick patients.

May we all be filled with compassion for those who are suffering.


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