A reflection from Fr. David Twomey
The 23rd of March will be the anniversary of the first National Lockdown. Marie Curie is organising a National Day of Reflection on the 23rd, with the following theme:
Reflect | Connect | Hope
Perhaps these words might be significant for us.
There is much to reflect on from the past year. So much has happened. Sadly, many have lost their lives, so many families are coping with grief. Added to that, we will all have had our particular struggles during the last year. We need time and space to think and to pray about all we have been though together.
And yet, there are so many good news stories too, which have shone as lights in the darkness. We have used technology to connect with each other in new ways, including as Churches! Our NHS continues to do extraordinary work in caring for us, not least in the magnificent way they have rolled out the vaccine recently. Communities have come together in support and many individuals have really stepped up to serve others. We need to give thanks for the positive connections that have been made in difficult times.
These good news stories are signs of hope. The best definition of hope I’ve come across is this one: “Optimism is the belief that things are going to get better. Hope is the belief that we can make things better.” (Rabbi Johnathan Sacks). In that spirit, we need to commit ourselves to making a better future for everyone.
There are lots of ways you can be involved in the Day of Reflection, either by holding a time of silence at 12pm (midday) or by lighting a candle in a window at 8pm. You might prefer to plant a tree or a plant as a sign of hope in the future. You could tie yellow ribbons to a prayer tree or railings as a sign of prayer and support for all who are bereaved.
This is one prayer you might like to use as part of the day:
Faithful 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.
Fr. David Twomey
Priest in Charge of Seaton Hirst
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