For the Missing (Specific Person in My Family)
Here’s a prayer to be said on behalf of a missing person. This is for a specific person in one’s family or circle of friends, such as – G-d forbid – a natural disaster, a terrorist attack, a hiking accident, an abduction or an Alzheimer’s patient disappearing. Gender selections are identified with a slash (“his/her”). In coming weeks I’ll post two additional versions: one to be said on behalf of someone whose name is known but is out of one’s personal circle – such as when a missing person is named in the news – and a general prayer for all missing persons.
For the Missing (Specific Person in My Family)
G-d of the frightened,
G-d of the missing and the lost,
Return my [father/mother/sister/brother/son/daughter/friend/husband/wife/partner]
___________________________ [full name]
To the cradle of my arms
And the refuge of our home
Speedily, in life and in health.
Watch over her/him. Protect her/him.
Shelter her/him from harm.
Deliver her/him from evil acts and evil intent.
Bless the professionals [and volunteers] dedicated to her/his return.
Grant them skill, insight, fortitude and luck.
G-d of Old,
These [hours/days/weeks/months/years]
Of dismay and dread are almost too much to bear.
Grant me [and my family] endurance, hope and faith
That I/we will soon be reunited with ___________ [first name]
In the fullness of joy.
Holy One,
Protector and Redeemer,
Hear [this/my/our] prayer.
© 2013 Alden Solovy and tobendlight.com. All rights reserved.
Postscript: Here are two prayers about family, one “For Family” and another for “Family Healing.”
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Photo Source: New York City Fire Department