Rome (NEV), May 8 2020 – The interim General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (CEC), Rev. Prof. Dr. Ioan Sauca, has invited all member churches to observe a global prayer day on 14 May. The joint initiative with the members of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, of which the WCC is part, is calling for “prayer and supplication” to God for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Many of our people are experiencing fear and uncertainty, as well as trauma, separation, isolation, and even death in their families or in their church communities,” said Sauca.
“As we continue to navigate this global health crisis, world unity through prayer reflects our willingness to care for one another,” continued Sauca. “WCC member churches can, from their own places and traditions, support each other, look outwards to the needs of all their neighbours, and strengthen our one human family.”
In calling for worldwide prayer, the committee stated in the invitation: “Each one, from wherever they are and according to the teachings of their religion, or faith, should implore God to lift this pandemic off us and the entire world, to rescue us all from this adversity.”
The committee’s call also emphasizes the importance of asking God “to inspire scientists to find a cure that can turn back this disease, and to save the whole world from the health, economic, and human repercussions of this serious pandemic.”
The committee is suggesting a day “for fasting, works of mercy, prayers, and supplications for the good of all humanity.”
The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity was established last year as a concrete response to the Document on Human Fraternity signed in Abu Dhabi, February 2019 by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam, Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, at the conclusion of the interreligious Forum at the Fonder’s Memorial which was also attended by the outgoing Secretary of the CEC, pastor Olav Fykse Tveit.