Join us on 23 March to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.

On 23 March 2021, it will be one year since the first UK lockdown. Since then, millions of people have been bereaved, both as a result of Covid-19 and due to other causes. The restrictions we’ve all been living under have meant that many people have had to grieve without the comfort of having friends and family around them. 

Marie Curie, supported by many other organisations, including the Church of England, has organised a National Day of Reflection to acknowledge grief and loss over the last year.

We are encouraged to

Take a minute to reflect: Join a minute of silence at 12 noon and/or 8pm, shine a light at 8pm or take a moment to reflect on the last year in your own way. There are some Bible readings and prayers here if you would like to use them to help you reflect and there will be new prayer posts in the churchyard from Sunday for a week. At 8pm on Tuesday we are encouraged to come together to light up the night. Stand outside with a light – a candle, a torch, your phone – or shine a light in your window for everyone to see.

Take a moment to connect: Reach out to someone you know who is going through a bereavement by sending flowers, writing a card or having a chat.

Show your support: Create a colourful poster for your window or shine a light at 8pm to show your support on the National Day of Reflection. There are different posters for colouring here: 1, 2, 3. Details of shine a light are above in the take a minute to reflect section.

A Prayer for the National Day of Reflection
God of Love,
As we think about all that has changed this year,
help us to trust that you are always with us.
As we remember those who have died,
help us to trust they are at peace with you.
As we reach out to others with kindness and care,
may hope shine out in every heart and home.
Amen.

More information, ideas and resources can be found on the Marie Curie website here.