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SALT LAKE CITY — President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a video Thursday in which he invites all church members and friends worldwide to participate in a day of fasting and prayer this Sunday, March 29.
"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, whom Latter-day Saint faithful consider to be a prophet, seer and revelator, says in the video. "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."
President Nelson said the worldwide fast is "for all whose health permits" and should be a time to "pray for relief from the physical, emotional and economic effects of this global pandemic."
The message comes two days after the church temporarily closed all its temples worldwide to combat the COVID-19 pandemic; the church had already suspended its Sunday gatherings and other activities.
