Day of Prayer declared by Nebraska Governor, to remember those lost in pandemic

BEATRICE – Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts has declared this Sunday as a “Day of Prayer” to honor the memory of those who have died during the pandemic.
Ricketts says many families have been severely impacted.

"Many families are going to be experiencing the sorrow of not having their loved ones at the holidays, with them. We want to grieve with them for their loss, and we want to support them."

Ricketts says the Sunday observance is to remember those who have suffered and pray for relief from the pandemic and to help citizens endure.Ricketts says it is also a good occasion for Nebraskans to find a way to serve their fellow citizens.

First Lady Susanne Shore said each loss is painful. She says often, families have not been able to spend time with loved ones, or even mourn the death of a family member because of coronavirus precautions such as social distancing.

"Pete and I hope that all of you find peace and comfort in family members and in the memories that you hold dear. I ask that eac of us reach out to anyone we know who has lost someone recently. Let them know that you are thinking of them. This is the biggest gift that we can give right now. This is a prime opportunity to make a connection with one another, especially at this important time when we're having to isolate and limit our encounters with each other."

Shore today thanked doctors, nurses, teachers, first responders and others who have worked tirelessly to care for others during a difficult time.

"Through this weekend of remembrance and honor, we want to spend some time reflecting on the loss and challenges that we've experienced and begin a long period of healing. We're not out of the woods right now, but we can begin that journey by connecting and supporting one another."

Nebraska Impact has established a memorial wall for families to post memorials to family members or friends they’ve lost during the pandemic.

neimpact.org

Nebraskans are being encouraged to use this weekend to engage in acts of kindness to others, volunteering or making a charitable contribution to organizations that are working to mitigate the impact of coronavirus.