This prayer was written on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the earthquake that claimed as many as 300,000 lives in Haiti. As the country continues to endure unimaginable loss, and confronts escalating challenges of poverty, disease and violence, let us extend a prayer for the return of comfort, safety and peace.
Merciful God, a year ago we cried out to you for our brothers and sisters in Haiti,when thousands of their homes became their graves.1 Today, we remember those who were lost, may their names and memories be a blessing. God who watches over the widow and the orphan,2 watch over the mourners of Haiti, that they may find comfort and peace. God who binds up the wounds of the broken hearted,3 heal those who were injured. God who shelters us in peace,4 return those who were displaced to their homes. Rock of IsraelLit. ''the one who struggles with God.'' Israel means many things. It is first used with reference to Jacob, whose name is changed to Israel (Genesis 32:29), the one who struggles with God. Jacob's children, the Jewish people, become B'nai Israel, the children of Israel. The name also refers to the land of Israel and the State of Israel., strengthen the hands of the people of Haiti and those who work alongside them. Be with them so that they will not fear as they walk forward from the valley of the shadow of death;5 give them courage as they rebuild their homes and communities. Help them to build a nation of prosperity and stability, fulfilling the vision of your prophet; “They will rebuild ruined cities and inhabit them; they will plant vineyards and drink their wine,they will till gardens and eat their fruits.”6 Help us, the members of this holy congregation,7 to keep our brothers and sisters in Haiti in our prayers and actions through the passing of time, along with all those who need our support. And let us say, Amen.
1 From the traditional Yom KippurThe holiest day of the Jewish year and the culmination of a season of self-reflection. Jews fast, abstain from other worldly pleasures, and gather in prayers that last throughout the day. Following Ne'ilah, the final prayers, during which Jews envision the Gates of Repentance closing, the shofar is sounded in one long blast to conclude the holy day. It is customary to begin building one's sukkah as soon as the day ends. liturgy.
2 Psalms 146:9.
3 Psalms 147:3.
4 From the traditional evening liturgy.
5 Psalms 23:4.
6 Amos 9:14.
7 ShabbatShabbat is the Sabbath day, the Day of Rest, and is observed from Friday night through Saturday night. Is set aside from the rest of the week both in honor of the fact that God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. On Shabbat, many Jews observe prohibitions from various activities designated as work. Shabbat is traditionally observed with festive meals, wine, challah, prayers, the reading and studying of Torah, conjugal relations, family time, and time with friends. morning liturgy.
