At twelve o'clock today there is an opportunity to stop and pause for a minute, as we remember the past year the year we suffered from the global pandemic.. The pain of it, the people who died or who remain very damaged after Covid-19, the change in life, medical care, values and where we are at now and for our families. An opportunity to briefly reflect, remember and say our prayers.
You may want to observe this, and can sit quietly at home, or go on a prayer walk of your community or wrap up warmly and enjoy your green space. Whatever you wish to do is fine and what you do with that minute is also ok.
Tonight at 20:00 hours again you can light a candle lantern and step out on your doorsteps simply to think back, to look forward and to remember. There have been so many who have suffered and so many who have died.
Some words to guide us from the Church of England National day of Reflection, which you may wish to use.
Reflect
Loving God,
You hold all our times in your hands, our past, our present, our future. Be close to us now as we remember all the difficulties and disappointments of the past year. Be especially close to all of us who are thinking of someone we loved and knew, but see no longer, whether family, friend, colleague or neighbour. Help us to trust that they are at peace with you, and comfort us with your presence.
Connect
Loving God,
You place us in families and communities, and we give you thanks for all those around us who serve us and help us in so many ways. Give wisdom to community leaders, to our schools, hospitals, care homes and other agencies who make a difference to our lives. Help each of us to have the courage to reach out with thanks and kindness to those around us and to speak words of faith as we share the good news of your love.
Hope
Loving God,
As we journey towards Easter, help us to live as people of hope, knowing that beyond the pain of the cross lies the joy of resurrection. Inspire us in our worship, through our churches and in our homes, that we may bring glory to you and joy to others. Be with those who are struggling in mind, body or spirit, and give courage to those who are facing uncertainty and change ahead. Help each of us to keep our eyes fixed on you, that we may reflect your light to all whom we meet.
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.
We remember those who are ill either physically
mentally or spiritually because of Covid.
As we reach out to others with kindness and care,
may we look forward to the future,
may hope shine out in every heart and home.
Amen
