The Church of England and the Diocese of Derby are supporting the National Day of Reflection on Wednesday, 23 March 2022, the second anniversary of the first UK lockdown, to commemorate the tragic loss of life and to stand together with everyone who’s grieving, whether as a result of Covid or other causes.
Organised by Marie Curie, the National Day of Reflection looks to reflect on our collective loss, support those who've been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.
How can churches get involved?
- Include it in your notices and prayers on Sunday, 20 March 2022. Prayer and intercession resources are available that use the key words – reflect, support, hope.
- Share the Light at 8.00pm by lighting a candle in placing it in your window.
- Host or visit a Wall of Reflection
- Display your daffodil
- Put up posters in your community, raising awareness.
- Toll the church bell just after noon to mark the end of the minute’s silence.
- Email/print and send the prayer postcard to anyone and everyone to use at home on that day.
- Light a special candle in the church and say the prayer – record it on your phone or tablet and share the film on social media.
- Encourage people to phone or send a card to anyone who may feel bereaved.
- Involve the local school and encourage them to use the simple prayer at noon or to colour daffodil cards and deliver them to a local care home.
- Invite people to plant a seed, a bulb or bush as a sign of hope.
- Invite people to tie yellow ribbons to a prayer tree or railings as a sign of their prayer and support for all who are bereaved.
- Open your church for private prayer.