This is a prayer in response to the massive mudslide in Snohomish County, Washington. It’s an adaption of two prayers that I originally wrote for the people of Haiti and have subsequently revised for other places hit by major storms and disasters, including Japan, New Zealand and the Philippines.

In Devastation (Prayer for the People of Snohomish County)
G-d beyond my understanding,
The earth has turned violent,
Sweeping our brothers and sisters off their feet,
Crushing and drowning homes and lives
In a torrent of mud,
Toppling the foundations of hope and sustenance.

G-d of justice and mercy,
We pray for the people of Snohomish County,
Those who have been swept into chaos despair by the shifting earth.
Bless the first responders with endurance
To be of maximum service in this moment of immeasurable need.
Let anyone still alive be found speedily
And returned to their families
With a full measure of health.

Divine Source of abundance and grace,
The new widow,
The new orphan,
The newly bereaved and bereft turn to You.
Grant them endurance, strength and courage.
We also pray for the victims of any disaster,
Any violence, suffering or despair.
Grant all in need comfort and consolation,
Blessing and renewal.

Heavenly Guide,
Hand of love and shelter,
Bless the people of Snohomish County
With Your protection,
Your shelter,
And Your peace.

© 2014 Alden Solovy and tobendlight.com. All rights reserved.

Postscript: Here’s a general prayer “For First Responders,” as well as prayer for those who have died in service to others as first responders, called “Yizkor for First Responders,” which appears in my book, Jewish Prayers of Hope and Healing.

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Photo Source: King County Sheriff’s Office/ kirotv.com