“This is not, surely, a time for indifference, selfishness, divisions, because the whole world is suffering and must unite itself in facing the pandemic.” (cfr. Pope Francis, Urbi et Orbi Easter message, April 12, 2020)
Religious believers and all people of good will are invited to observe a world day of prayer, fasting and works of charity on Thursday, May 14, to implore the divine to aid humanity in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic.
“May each of us, wherever we are, and according to the teachings of our own respective faith traditions and philosophies, seek divine help to rescue ourselves and the entire world from this adversity, to inspire scientists to find a cure for the virus and to save the whole world from the health, economic, and human repercussions of this serious pandemic.” (Day of Prayer for Humanity, adapted from the Communiqué of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity)
Endorsed by Pope Francis on May 3, the Day of Prayer for Humanity is an initiative begun by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity. The invitation to participate was extended to bishops of all U.S. dioceses through USCCB President Archbishop José Gomez by the President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue Cardinal Miguel Ayuso Guixot, MCCJ.
Ideas for acts of charity during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused us to temporarily alter the ways we practice our faith and interact with other people. This new way of being also has resulted in bursts of creativity and innovation in the ways we celebrate, grieve, connect and collaborate. If performing acts of charity interests you, there are many ways to serve and care for others and volunteer at this time within the guidelines of Michigan’s executive order No. 2020-21.
Contact your parish to learn how you can help during this time, or visit the “What we do” page of Catholic Charities West Michigan’s website to see how you can support their efforts in the community. Also reflect on this special prayer to help you begin thinking about those in need of support or assistance at this time and to come up with your own ideas about how to help.