Ely Cathedral will be remembering all those who have died as a result of the Coronvirus pandemic in a special day of prayer and reflection on March 23rd.
This date marks a year since the initial lockdown to prevent the spread of Covid-19, which has led to over 125,000 deaths in the UK and several million worldwide.
The Cathedral will be open at set times during the day and evening for anyone wishing to come in for private prayer, reflection or to light a candle. Families and friends of those who have died are also being invited to remember their loved ones in an online memorial book which can be accessed directly from the Cathedral website from Friday 19 March.
The Very Revd Mark Bonney, Dean of Ely said:
“Our thoughts and prayers during the past year have very much been with those who have suffered with Covid 19, or have lost someone as a result of this pandemic. It is most appropriate on this day of reflection for the Cathedral to offer space and time for anyone to come and remember or pray for the victims, their families and their friends. We hope people will find some comfort in this small act of remembrance, regardless of their faith or belief.”
Evensong will be livestreamed at 5.30pm and will include the choristers performing ‘Hope’, based on words by Justin Welby, The Archbishop of Canterbury, and music by Sarah MacDonald, Fellow and Director of Music at Selwyn College, Cambridge, and Director of Ely Cathedral Girls’ Choir. The hymn is inspired by the events of the past year.
The Cathedral will be open for Private Prayer and Reflection from 10.00am – 2.00pm, acknowledging the minute’s silence at midday, and again from 6.30pm to 8.00pm. For the safety and well-being of everyone, social distancing guidelines and other protective measures will remain in place.
Further details are available on the Cathedral website - www.elycathedral.org
How can churches can get involved in the National Day of Reflection
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. Find out more on the Church of England website here.