COVID-19 has presented us with hard truths: our suffering has been unequal. Elders, black and brown neighbors, native communities, refugees and immigrants have borne disproportionately the brunt of sickness and death. Our prayers for the healing of the nation must acknowledge the brokenness of our democracy and call us to repair the injustices this pandemic has revealed.

 

We are not okay with 100,000 deaths. This is a tragedy that calls for mourning, grieving, and lament. On Friday, with Ramadan finished, Muslims will remember the reception of the Quran. On Friday and Saturday, Jews will remember God’s covenant as they celebrate Shavuot and read their yizkhor (remembrance) prayers. On Sunday, Christians will celebrate Pentecost, when the first Christians were given courage through the reception of the Holy Spirit. Throughout the weekend, we encourage you to name, honor, lament, and offer our tributes to the lives, families, and communities of those who have died.

 

On Monday, June 1, we will gather to remember those who have died. This June 1 call to remember is being supported by the U.S. Conference of Mayors who represent over 1,400 mayors across the country.

 

We are called to help lead our congregations, communities, and country in this time of grief and lament in a way that will lead us forward more united as a country to address the very real challenges we face ahead. And we know that we can only do that together.