COVID-19 MEMORIAL - An Afternoon of Reflection

In partnership with the Northampton Inter Faith Forum – Niff, Northampton Town Council invite the community to come together to commemorate, reflect and remember those affected by COVID 19. An afternoon of reflection will take place on Sunday 9th October, in the beautiful surroundings of Abington Park with a service to celebrate the community around the iconic Bandstand, from 2-5pm.

The Mayor of Northampton, Cllr Dennis Meredith will open the afternoon's service, hosted by Daisie-Belle. The service will feature healing prayers, inspiring readings and mantras, cultural religious dance and musical performances including the spectacular Dhol drummers, culminating with an interfaith prayer from all the NIFF committee members.

Cllr Jane Birch says, "Whilst we recognise the Covid-19 outbreak is far from over, we hope that this afternoon of reflection will offer a moment of catharsis to all who have lost, whilst providing a chance to come together and rebuild our community".

There will be a representative from each faith present at the service, including the Baháʼí, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam and Sikhism faiths. Representatives from local charities, emergency services and key workers will also be in attendance, offering information on local services.

Surendra Malhotra, Chair of the Northampton Inter Faith Forum said, "The outbreak of Covid-19 showed no prejudice, non-discriminate of the lives it affected. The suffering caused by the pandemic is universal. This service is therefore dedicated to bringing together people of all faiths and backgrounds to heal as one."

A memorial tree has been planted in the park to commemorate all those affected as a dedication to the community. Everyone is encouraged to take part in the afternoon and contribute to the memorial by writing their own reflections on colourful ribbons to tie to the branches of the tree. This can take the form of either a memory, a name, message of thanks/hope or a direct dedication to a loved one