The COVID-19 pandemic has reached virtually every corner of our globe, infecting members of this very chamber and taking thousands of American lives. It is causing a devastating impact on our economy with unemployment levels rising to historic levels. While families shelter in place, businesses restructure, and Congress works to provide resources, many have also chosen to join together in seeking aid from a higher power through prayer and fasting.

Fasting is a practice that is typically done by abstaining from food and water, but is often altered for those whose health would be impacted by doing so. I would like to reiterate that this is not just for members of a particular religion but asking all people to participate in this day.

After an invitation last Saturday from the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell M. Nelson, to join in a worldwide day of fasting and prayer, the “Worldwide Fast April 10” Facebook group was created and has been joined by nearly 400,000 members of all faiths including members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Catholics, Hindus, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, evangelical Christians, atheists and more hailing from six continents.

Regardless of which religion you affiliate with, if any, there is indeed power in a united, heartfelt plea for healing throughout the world. I invite each of you to consider joining me tomorrow.

As a reminder, I'll be hosting a telephone town hall at 6pm MDT tonight. You can also stay in the know by following my Twitter account, my Facebook page, my Instagram profile, or our page just for Coronavirus updates for more information.