This is a prayer for a missing person. This prayer is 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. Here’s a link to a prayer to be said for a specific missing person in one’s family or circle of friends. Gender selections are identified with a slash (“his/her”). In coming weeks I’ll post one more version: a general prayer for all missing persons.

Addendum, Aug. 26, 2014: Aaron Sofer disappeared during a hike in the Jerusalem Forest on Friday. Please pray for his safe return. This prayer was originally posted in 2013 on behalf of a missing 14-year old, mute, severely-autistic teen, Avonte Oquendo, who’s remains were found months later.

For the Missing (Specific Person, Non-Relative)
G-d of the frightened,
G-d of the missing and the lost,
Return ___________________________ [full name]
To the cradle of his/her family’s arms
And the refuge of their 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 his/her family endurance, hope and faith
That they 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 www.tobendlight.com. All rights reserved.

Postscript: Here’s a link to “For the Missing (Specific Person in My Family).”

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Photo Source: Times of Israel

Tags: Alzheimer’s, confused and freightened person, Dementia, fear, lost in a disaster, lost people, missing person prayer, Parkinson’s, urban search and rescue, without a trace