Yesterday, Dawn Brancheau, a 40-year old SeaWorld trainer was killed by Shamu, the park’s captive killer whale. Please join us in prayer for Dawn’s family and friends in their time of loss and also pray for every trainer who works with animals at all SeaWorld locations and zoos across the country and the world.

Heavenly Father,

The words don’t come easily right now, but I still approach you asking for prayer. I come asking that you would be in the midst of Dawn Brancheau’s family and friends as they mourn her passing. May you comfort each family member and friend who will fondly remember Dawn in the weeks to come and weep because she is no longer with them. I pray that their weeping will only last for a moment and you would bring joy into their lives by remembering how much they loved Dawn. We thank you that you blessed Dawn with a heart for your creation and we pray that he spirit for training animals would live on through her fellow trainers at SeaWorld and all across the world. As SeaWorld continues to let their trainers interact with the animals, I pray for knowledge, wisdom, and discernment on the part of management and on the part of every person who has to closely interact with the animals. May each person who must come into contact with Shamu treat him with tender love and care. I know to some this is inconceivable and to many it seems like the appropriate thing to do would be to take him back to his natural environment–and while I agree with the latter sentiment–I do pray that as long as he is under the care at SeaWorld he would be treated well. I pray for protection for every worker at every zoo who has to work closely with animals who may attack them. May they remember that these animals are your blessed creation and always consider that in their care of the animals. In turn, may all of the animals be imbued with your love. May all hearts turn to prayer for Dawn Brancheau, her family and her friends as well as those who have passed due to similar circumstances and everyone who works at every SeaWorld and zoos across the world.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen