Byzantine Catholic Church Patriarchal See

Father in Heaven,


We pray for those killed, those in critical condition, and those maimed and wounded at the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

Lord, we have no idea as of yet as to the motive... Both the Waco, Texas event and the Oklahoma City Bombing took place in the middle of April. Then too, tax day is here as well, and our country is still embroiled in financial disputes and distress. And Father, those a just a few domestic issues from American history that come to mind.

Overseas there are thousands, even millions who wish to do us harm, and even though the war on terrorism has been fought diligently, that fight is far from being over. Is there ever to be an end to human suffering brought about by humans? Is it not enough that natural events and accidents each year cost countless lives?

We of faith are sensitive to the needs of the one, yet we tend to look at numbers and tally them when tragedies occur... As if the greater the number the greater the tragedy. Father of us all, numbers do matter, but we must consider this:

How do we know if the next great world leader is among the dead no matter if one, or one thousand, is killed in a given incident? The next great scientist? The long awaited diplomat that could bring the Israelis and Palestinians together at last? How can, how could we ever know? We cannot!

That is why every single life is precious. Say that one life lost; is not destined for greatness. Is that death diminished? No! Father, through your Son's actions at the grave of Lazarus we know that no life is ever diminutive. That every life has a purpose even if that purpose seems to be unseen except by You and never witnessed by human masses. 

Heavenly Father, the death of the one is a tragedy, the death of many a holocaust; Yet we pray to you for them all.

Oh hear our prayer, and let our cries come unto You, Oh Lord of Mercies.

Amen.