Over the past year, close to 550,000 people in the U.S. and 2.8 million worldwide have lost their lives due to COVID-19. Restrictions on gathering have deprived countless survivors of chances to mourn, heal and grieve losses, whether from COVID-19 or unrelated causes, with family and friends.

To honor these losses and provide opportunity to mourn as a community, the university is hosting the “Cornell COVID-19 Service of Remembrance,” a virtual event on Zoom, Monday, April 19, from noon to 12:45 p.m. Prelude music will begin at 11:50 a.m.

The service, which is open to all students, faculty, staff and retirees, will be hosted by Oliver Goodrich, associate dean of students for spirituality and meaning making, and Catherine Thrasher-Carroll, mental health promotion program director.

Community members representing the various Cornell constituencies will deliver readings with music from Cornell musicians and other remarks being interspersed.

The service is intended to bring Cornellians together in community, in an inclusive, comforting and hopeful atmosphere. The event is nonsectarian and nonpartisan, while acknowledging COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on various communities, such as those of color, people with disabilities, and elders.

Mental health resources and other grief supports will be provided at the end of the event. A recording of the service will be shared publicly.