Covid-19 Day of Reflection 8 March 2026
19th February 2026
The Covid-19 Day of Reflection, 8 March, is a national moment to pause and remember those who died, to reflect on the experiences of those who grieved, and to acknowledge the lasting impact of the pandemic on our lives and communities. The day is organised by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and AtaLoss has been grateful to contribute as part of its advisory committee, offering:
important signposting to those who are currently grieving and for whom the activities and reminders will trigger their unprocessed grief,
a prayer for churches, and
directing to The Bereavement Journey® courses across the UK for community support.
Covid opened our eyes to the deep impact of not facilitating or supporting grief. Many people were unable to say goodbye or mourn as they would have wished. For many this has led to delayed, suppressed or complex grief, and has reminded us of the importance of ‘good deaths’; to be with those who are dying, enable final conversations, have a funeral of choice to say goodbye, and to come together for comfort and support.
As churches gather on Sunday 8 March, we invite you to use the prayer below. Some may choose to mark the Day of Reflection in other ways within their worship, perhaps through silence, candle-lighting, or remembrance of loved ones.
Covid-19 Day of Reflection: A prayer
What matters now?
We walked with people as they said goodbye to loved ones they could not hold,
mourned without hugs,
and buried the dead, often with only a handful present.On this Covid-19 Day of Reflection,
we lament with those who have yet to process their grief
and who are still struggling in their bereavement.We thank you that you were with us then:
in prayers spoken through screens,
in candles lit alone at home.
Your steadfast love never ceasing.As we move forward, awaken us to the reality that death touches us all.
Inspire us to strive to prepare for good deaths,
and to seek your grace so we may share in others’ grief,
helping and supporting those who are bereaved,
re-knitting communities together with kindness.Help us to ease the heavy and complex emotions of grief.
As these echoes of the past resound,
grant us your wisdom to re-energise our desire
to offer compassion and hope.May we be with those who endure weeping,
present to them, not bound by time, but prayerful,
that their peace may be restored
and that joy may come again.Amen
Revd Nicky Grey, AtaLoss Ambassador
Nicky reflects on her experience as Rector of a parish in Staffordshire supporting grieving families during lockdown.
This day may be difficult for those who were bereaved at this time bringing difficult emotions. AtaLoss encourages anyone affected by bereavement, whether recent or from the pandemic years, to seek help if needed. Our website AtaLoss.org provides signposting to over 2000 bereavement resources and organisations offering support.
The Bereavement Journey® programme is a unique form of structured volunteer led community bereavement support. Offered by churches for their communities it provides 7 sessions of films and facilitated discussion for adults to process the impact of a death, in a safe space with others.