As coronavirus cases continue increasing in Oklahoma to nearly 200,000, Gov. Kevin Stitt has issued a proclamation declaring today, Dec. 3, a day of prayer and fasting for Oklahomans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I ask Oklahomans of all faiths and religious backgrounds to join together with me in prayer and fasting to continue to ask God to heal those who are sick, comfort those who are hurting and provide renewed strength and wisdom to all who are managing the effects of COVID-19,” Stitt said in his proclamation.

“Churches and faith communities have an incredible opportunity during this season to provide hope to Oklahomans who are struggling as we close a year that has been mentally, emotionally and physically draining,” he continued. “It’s important that we continue to find safe ways to gather as we all do our part to protect our families, neighbors and communities from this virus.

“When we unite in prayer, we are reminded that there is no burden too heavy for God to lift or for this state to bear with His help. 2 Chronicles 7:14 proclaims that, ‘If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.’”

Agreeing with Stitt’s proclamation, Franklin Graham posted on Facebook that he’ll be joining the governor in praying for Oklahomans and for our nation to recover from this virus, and encouraged people to join in prayer too.

This is the second prayer proclamation Stitt has issued since the beginning of the pandemic. He issued a proclamation in March, declaring March 26 as a statewide day of prayer for all Oklahomans impacted by COVID-19.

Above: Gov. Kevin Stitt speaks during a roundtable with governors on the reopening of America’s small businesses at the White House in Washington, D.C., on June 18.

Photo: dpa picture alliance/Alamy Stock Photo