In the light of the massive wave of Covid-19 infections and deaths in India, and with the health care system struggling to cope with the situation, Archbishop Farrell is asking that parishes throughout the diocese would remember the suffering people of India this weekend. The Archbishop also asks that you would remember the loved ones among us of those who are sick and those who have died in India. Unable to travel, many are desperately worried and upset while far from family and home at this difficult time.

Those requesting our prayers say the states that are particularly affected by the surge in the pandemic include; Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra Mumbai, Delhi, Gujarath, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Karnataka Bangalore, Bengal Calcutta. Among the many problems, there is a lack of oxygen cylinders and a lack of hospital beds and healthcare facilities.

Many of the Indian nurses working in our hospitals are from Kerala. Like others, they have not managed to visit home for over a year now. For some, their parents are elderly and sick. Most have been unable to return home to be with their sick family members or for funerals of loved ones due to the restrictions as a result of the pandemic.

Suggested prayers to be included in the prayer of the faithful for Sunday Mass:

For the people of India trying to cope with the massive wave of Covid-19 infections and deaths, that nations will generously rally to support those who are suffering in this time of need.

Lord hear us.

For those among us who are worried and grieving for loved ones in India, that we may be attentive to them and their needs at this difficult time.

Lord hear us.

Pope Francis has asked for a marathon of prayer during May to bring an end to the pandemic.

Pope Francis Prayer for Protection from the Coronavirus

O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign
of salvation and hope.
We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick.
At the foot of the Cross, you participated in Jesus’ pain,
with steadfast faith.
You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need.
We are certain that you will provide, so that,
as you did at Cana of Galilee,
joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial.
Help us, Mother of Divine Love,
to conform ourselves to the Father’s will
and to do what Jesus tells us:
He who took our sufferings upon Himself,
and bore our sorrows to bring us,
through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection.
Amen.

We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God.
Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test
– and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.