Since the first UK Covid-19 lockdown began in 2020, millions have been bereaved.  The National Day of Reflection, coordinated by the charity Marie Curie and officially supported by the Church of England, will designate a special day to reflect on collective loss and grief. 

On 23 March 2021, it’ll 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, a charity which supports people around the event of a terminal diagnosis, has organised a National Day of Reflection to acknowledge grief and loss over the last year. The national Church of England is one of several organisations supporting it.

WHAT WILL BE HAPPENING ON THE DAY OF REFLECTION?

There will be a minute’s silence at 12 noon on 23 March to create a moment that shows support for the millions of people who’ve been bereaved. It might also be a day to connect with someone who is grieving. This might be in simple ways such as having a chat with them, sending a card, a message, or giving them some spring flowers.

Join their online reflection at 11.30am for 35 minutes, in which people will share thoughts, words and songs, concluding with the one minutes silence at 12 noon. Sign up at https://goodgrieffest.com/events/a-moment-of-reflection/

Longden and Hanwood Churches will be open for private prayer and the opportunity to light a candle in memory of those who have died in the last 12 months.

11.30am-12.30pm Hanwood Church open

12noon-1pm Longden Church open

Watch the Marie Curie introduction:

Go to the Marie Curie website

A new Graham Kendrick song sums up this day:

Finally, a prayer for the day:

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