National Day of Prayer for COVID-19

Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Sharon Hollis is encouraging UCA members to join in a day of prayer for all those experiencing the ongoing impacts of the pandemic. 

It follows an invitation from the National Council of Churches in Australia (NCCA) for churches to mark a National Day of Prayer in their worship services on Sunday 22 August.  

“I encourage you to join together in prayerful ways as we acknowledge the loss, anxiety, fear and uncertainty facing many people in Australia and across the world,” said Rev Hollis. 

“While we are physically apart, we draw together with churches across the country and the world, united as the Body of Christ, and reminded of a God of love who cares for us all.” 

“In recent weeks, many congregations across Australia have again found themselves in lockdown and gathered worship has moved online. I am thankful to all those who are making it possible for us to come together in worship in creative ways and support each other pastorally in what continues to be a very challenging time.” 

“We are also mindful that this is a global challenge, and many people across the world are particularly vulnerable to the health and economic impacts of the virus.” 

“We welcome the additional supports for people impacted economically provided by the Australian Government, for which UnitingCare Australia has advocated, and we continue to call for vaccine equity across the globe and vital support for vulnerable nations called for under the End COVID for All campaign.” 

“I encourage you to be mindful of the ways we can continue to be kind and compassionate to one another and to seek to be life-giving communities of faith within the context we all find ourselves.” 

“Thank you to all those who are already or making plans to be vaccinated. We know that vaccination is a key step to overcoming the challenges of COVID.” 

The President invited UCA members to pray for those impacted by COVID in the week from 16-22 August and particularly in their gathered worship, whether it will be online or in-person on Sunday 22 August. 

Rev Sharon Hollis has written a prayer which people are encouraged to use and share in their worship. During the week from 16 –22 August, the Assembly will continue to share other resources for prayer.  

 Prayer from Rev Sharon Hollis, UCA President 

God of mercy and compassion, 

We pray for the world as across the globe we face the challenges of COVID. 

We give you thanks for those who care for the sick,  

for those who work on limiting the spread of the disease  

and those who develop and administer vaccines. 

 We remember before you all those affected by COVID, 

Comfort those who mourn the death of a loved one, 

Heal those who have COVID-19 or suffer the long-term effects of having had COVID. 

Sustain those who work in health care, testing and vaccination. 

Encourage those who are supporting education remotely,  

Console those who must stay at home,  

And bless and protect those whose work is essential for our wellbeing. 

We long for a world where access to health care and vaccines are shared equitably 

Strengthen the efforts of those who work to end COVID for all. 

And fill us with a desire to work for justice and care for all. Amen 

 You can find further COVID-19 Prayer Resources from the World Council of Churches.
The Assembly will continue to share prayer resources in the coming week.