National Day of Reflection
22nd March 2021
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, is a special day to reflect on collective loss and grief.
Prayers and resources for those who are grieving
A minute’s silence and an invitation to connect
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.
Light a candle and say a prayer with your family at 8pm
Download an Act of Prayer to say with you family at 8pm
Prayers and help for those who are grieving
Here are two specially written prayers which anyone can use to remember someone who has died this year. Here are more prayers about grieving and bereavement and here is a video prayer for users of BSL.
You can contact your local clergy through achurchnearyou.com and there are more resources for bereavement support from ataloss.org
1 Dear God,
Be with us as we think about all that has changed this year,
And help us to trust that you are always with us.
Be close to us as we remember those who have died,
And help us to trust they are at peace with you.
Show us how to reach out to others with kindness and care ,
So that hope shines out in every heart and home,
Amen
2 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
A short video from Marie Curie about today
