We are inviting you to take part in a National Day of Reflection to mark the first anniversary of the COVID lockdown on March 23.
We are being asked to keep a minute’s silence on midday to remember those who have died and to show support for those who have been bereaved.
The day is being spearheaded by leading end of life charity Marie Curie and is supported by the Church in Wales, alongside a host of organisations, MPs, and celebrities who are backing the day.
Churches are being invited to toll a single bell, where possible, at 12.01, after the minute’s silence. They can also join other significant buildings by lighting up in yellow in the evening, if they can.
Marie Curie estimates that more than three million people have been bereaved since the pandemic began, yet many have been unable to properly say goodbye to loved ones or grieve.
The National Day of Reflection will give the nation and communities a moment to remember, grieve and celebrate everyone who has died and show support for our families, friends and colleagues who are grieving.
People are encouraged to remember loved ones through prayer, by lighting a candle, planting flowers or sharing their experience of grief and loss on social media.
They are also invited to connect with those who are grieving by praying with them, having a chat, sending a card, a message or flowers.
Marie Curie is hosting a series of online talks and conversations about grief that people can join, as well as a virtual choir.
The Cathedral will be open on 23rd March for people to reflect and pray.
The Parish Church bell will be rung at 12.01pm and in the evening will be lit up in yellow.
The link below includes a prayer to be used on the day.
Prayers for Nat Day of Refl 23.3.2021
