PRAYER IN A TIME OF PAIN, READ BY RABBI NEWBERGER OF CONGREGATION B'NAI JESHURUN

In the midst of our preparation for the days of awe--when tradition tells us that the fate of human beings and nations are weighed in the balance--we feel the added burden of the violence, suffering, and death that have been unleashed upon so many hundreds of people.

We pray that this time of rage and destruction pass quickly for all of us. We ask God that healing and comfort come to those who have been injured and who grieve. We pray above all for wisdom for the leaders of our country. Give them strength at this time of sorrow to help bind our nation's wounds and begin the work of reweaving our country's fabric.

And we ask You, Holy One, to spread over us, our people, and our nation. Your sheltering presence.