The Navajo Nation 

Office of the President and Vice President

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2020

Navajo Nation Family Prayer Weekend

declared to help fight the spread of COVID-19

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, First Lady Phefelia Nez, Vice President Myron Lizer, and Second Lady Dottie Lizer issued a proclamation on Wednesday, declaring April 10-13, 2020, as “Navajo Nation Family Prayer Weekend,” in observance of Good Friday and Easter and to encourage families to pray together for family members, neighbors, health care workers, governing officials, and those who are sick, and the families who have lost loved ones due to COVID-19 on the Navajo Nation.

“It has been a heartbreaking and challenging month for our Navajo people as Dikos Nstaaígíí-19, COVID-19, has spread among our communities. As we approach the 57-hour weekend curfew, we ask all of our Diné people to join us in prayer for the victims of the virus and their families, and the health of our communities,” said President Nez. “Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb on the third day after his crucifixion.”

The proclamation also recognizes “the adversities and sacrifices our people make serving their families and their Nation; those who are researching the COVID-19 coronavirus, the law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, the military, and all who dedicate their service for our safety.”

“For many of us, prayer is an important expression of faith, love, and hope. It is an act of worship, and it offers healing, guidance, and comfort. Through prayer, we find the strength to overcome challenges and heartache. Prayers reminds us that we are not alone and that we are all children of God,” said Vice President Lizer. “Also, we ask for everyone to continue to pray for our local health care providers, law enforcement, and first responders who are combating the virus at the front lines.”

The proclamation also states, “the religious faith of the Navajo People is strong and guided us through many adversities as a Nation and as individuals.”

“The Navajo people have endured many hardships and sacrifices throughout history, but we continue to stand strong with our faith, prayers, and teachings of our elders. As resilient people, we know our prayers are heard and answered. This weekend, may our beliefs and values bring us together and plant the seeds of hope and restoration,” added President Nez. 

The proclamation designates April 10-13, 2020, as “Navajo Nation Family Prayer Weekend.”

https://www.facebook.com/NezLizer2018/posts/2470277713237757