CHATTANOOGA, Tenn – President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has invited everyone to join in a worldwide fast for “physical, spiritual” healing in response to COVID-19.  The fast will take place on Sunday and members of The Church of Jesus Christ in the greater Chattanooga area will participate.

“As a physician and surgeon, I have great admiration for medical professionals, scientists, and all who are working around the clock to curb the spread of COVID-19,” President Nelson said. “I am also a man of faith, and I know that during these challenging times, we can be strengthened and lifted as we call upon God and His Son, Jesus Christ — the Master Healer.”

“I invite you to join with me in a worldwide fast — for all whose health permits — to pray for relief from the physical, emotional and economic effects of this global pandemic,” President Nelson stated.  “I invite members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints everywhere, along with our many friends, to fast and pray this Sunday, March 29.  Let us unite our faith to plead for physical, spiritual, and other healing throughout the entire world.”

“The Lord understands the feelings you are experiencing,” President Nelson continued.  “He loves and cares for you, as I do, too.”  In an earlier post, President Nelson also said that “these unique challenges will pass in due time.”

As the Church noted, it is rare for a president of The Church of Jesus Christ to call for a worldwide fast, although members fast regularly on the first Sunday of every month.  This fast, however, is different as it a special worldwide fast in response to COVID-19, which has spread to nearly every continent.