Every day over the last number of weeks we receive an update on the number of people who have died. It's both frightening and heartbreaking to hear of so many who have died with the Coronavirus. We know that behind every number there is a person who has a unique place in the heart of their family and community. Those who are mourning carry a heavy burden of grief as they feel robbed of the time they would have wished to spend with their loved ones through their illness. It is painfully difficult and so distressing to go through the sadness of funerals without the loving embrace of extended family and community. I know that many families in the parish who have faced the trauma of losing loved ones through the virus or in other circumstances, have been greatly comforted by the love and support they have experienced from neighbours and friends. They know that their loved ones are remembered with love, affection and gratitude. They are grateful that although we cannot be with them as we would wish, we carry them in our hearts of prayer and hope.
We pray today for all who are grieving so deeply. May God who raised Jesus from the dead give them comfort and peace.
As we entrust all who have died to God's loving embrace, let's take time today to light a candle in their memory. As we light our candle, we take a few minutes to be still in God's presence as we listen to the comforting hymn BE STILL MY SOUL
Be still my soul when dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears
Then shalt thou better know His love His heart
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears