Invitation to Unite During the Covid-19 Pandemic

By Linda McMillian

ALPHARETTA, MILTON, ROSWELL, Ga.— Throughout the world different religions share belief in a similar distinctive creed, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Taoism, Jainism, and Hinduism all include prayer and fasting as an expression of their faith.

Calling upon the multicultural religious practice in an international act of unity, the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell M. Nelson announced, “I invite all, including those not of our faith, to fast and pray on Good Friday, April 10, that the present pandemic may be controlled, caregivers protected, the economy strengthened and life normalized.”

A former medical doctor and surgeon, President Nelson explained, “During times of deep distress, as when illness reaches pandemic proportions, the most natural thing for us to do is to call upon our Heavenly Father and His Son—the Master Healer—to show forth Their marvelous power to bless the people of the earth.”

The international call to prayer and fast has spread to many continents. As recently reported in Deseret News, "A new Facebook group is growing swiftly, amassing 254,000 interfaith followers after organizers launched it Saturday to promote the worldwide day of prayer and fasting on Good Friday called for by President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The group’s rapid growth, international reach and multifaith makeup was one indication Tuesday of broad interest in the effort to call on divine power this week for help during the coronavirus pandemic."

“Worldwide Fast April 10” Facebook group includes Catholics, Latter-day Saints, Hindus, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, evangelical Christians, Wiccans, atheists and more on six continents. Others posted:

• “I am a Buddhist. Also a respiratory therapist. I believe in God and fasting and prayer. I am honored to join you all.”

• “I am a Scientologist and I will most def join in on this.”

• “If you all don’t mind a pagan, I am all in.”

• “I’m Methodist from the Philippines. I will join you in fasting and prayer.”

• “Been inactive for 15 years and don’t follow any organized religion, ever since but have no doubt in the power of the fast and prayer. Let’s do it!”

Roswell GA Stake President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Reed Macdonald, issued a local invitation, "As people of faith, we are not rendered helpless at this time of crisis. Our God is still our Heavenly Father who loves and cares for us and hears the prayers of all of his children. We humbly invite all of our local friends and neighbors of all faiths to join us in unity for this worldwide prayer and fast."

https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders-and-ministry/2020-04-07/worldwide-fast-april-2020-president-nelson-good-friday-180784