Minute's silence to mark anniversary of first Covid-19 lockdown as Portsmouth churches share message of hope and gratitude

A national day of reflection is set to be shared by the community on the anniversary of the first lockdown, on Tuesday, March 23.

Across Portsmouth, city churches will be offering opportunities for prayer and stillness throughout the day.

At midday, the country is set to join together in a minute’s silence which offers a chance to reflect on those who have lost their lives due to the pandemic.

Bob White, area dean of Portsmouth, said: ‘We have all been aware of the many challenges and pressures of the last year.

‘As a group of churches we wanted a simple way to show our appreciation and partnership with many in our parishes who have cared for so many others in those 12 months.

‘We look forward to continuing to be in partnership with them and to do all we can to support them in turn with our prayers and our care.’

Many of the Anglican churches in the city will be connecting and acknowledging those who have been affected by the pandemic.

They will be delivering a message of thanks, a reassurance of ongoing prayers and a commitment to continue to work together for the good of all around us to health centres, care homes and schools.

They will also be sharing 55 boxes of chocolates funded by the Deanery of Portsmouth with those places as signs of that love, care and prayer.

SEE ALSO: The 20 shops and restaurants we have lost in the Portsmouth area since pandemic began

Fareham Borough Councillors and officers will be joining the moment of silence at midday.

Cllr Sean Woodward, executive leader of Fareham Borough Council, said: ‘This has been such a difficult 12 months, with so many of us losing loved ones.

This day of reflection is a chance to join together as a nation in a collective sense of loss, which I hope will be a source of comfort and support to those who are bereaved.

‘As we fall silent, we will also be hoping for brighter times ahead.’

It is also hoped that people will help create a nationwide ‘beacon of remembrance’ on their doorsteps by shining phones, candles or torches into the sky at 8pm.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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