Passover begins tomorrow at sunset on the Jewish calendar. This weekend Christians will celebrate Palm Sunday, the start of Holy Week, leading to Easter. While observed by different communities, both Passover and Easter are celebrations central to their faiths, rooted in history and in the themes of hope, God’s presence, and delivery. They both occur in early spring, a time that naturally ushers in the sense and promise of renewal. In this spirit, I’d like to share a prayer for our times, for this season of Passover and Easter occurring as we collectively hope for life beyond the pandemic.

I invite you to join me in praying part of “A Prayer for Passover in the Era of COVID-19” by Rabbi Lisa Levine:

Source of Blessing:
Our lives are in turmoil, our hearts heavy.
Help us to cope with this modern plague.
We are worried for our families,
we are concerned for our communities,
our world is on the brink.
Bless us with strength.

Source of Hope:
We pray for those who are at greatest risk,
vulnerable and scared, isolated and lonely,
and for those heroes leading on the front lines
who keep us alive and fed.
Bless us with strength.

Source of Courage:
Quell our anxiety, keep us safe.
Help us continue to pray, sing and study.
We see the light of redemption just beyond the horizon.
Let us virtually join hands and march together
towards the promised land.
Bless us with freedom.
Amen.

In this season of hope, may you see the light of redemption just beyond the horizon.

Blessings & peace to you,
Jennifer, CPE Intern