Prayer in the Wake of Hurricane Katrina

Under the weight of such a heavy cross,
How do we pray for those who have lost
Their family, their friends,
Their jobs, and their homes?

Devastation pierces the heart of our nation.
So keenly we feel our fragility, our needs.
Now knowing that they are us,
Our sisters and brothers uprooted like weeds.

Our prayers fly forth like doves from the arc.
Calm the fearful. Strengthen the weak.
For those from whom so much has been taken,
Comfort, give comfort, where faith is forsaken.

As the flood waters begin to recede
We search the skies for your rainbow of hope.
What bitter lessons would you have us learn?
Of what shall we repent? To whom are we now sent?

End our woeful ruminations. Spark our dull imaginations.
Keep our hands busy and our hearts south.
Let us be your eyes, your ears,
Your mind, and your mouth.

In the pierced heart of our brother Christ,
Teach us to pray as he has taught,
To wed our word with a loving deed,
Blessed in spirit, poor with those in need.

Amen!

-- J. Michael Sparough, SJ