Church bells will ring all across Pennsylvania this Sunday, May 3, as part of a symbolic gesture meant to bring hope to thousands of frontline workers and millions of residents whose lives have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals are also encouraged to ring bells. Pictured: A church in Wrightsville borough, York County, Pennsylvania.
It has been many years since an event has affected every aspect of mainstream American society to the degree that the COVID-19 pandemic has. That is one of the reasons for the ongoing organization of parades and other symbolic showings of support for frontline health care workers and other heroes who are working hard to help keep everyone safe.
Another event that will recognize those workers as well as the sacrifices of all Pennsylvanians is planned for this Sunday, May 3.
Bells Across Pennsylvania will take place at 7 p.m., which is when residents of the Commonwealth and houses of worship are being asked to ring bells for three minutes.
According to the Pennsylvania State Mayors Association, which has organized the event, each minute of ringing bells will symbolize something different.
One minute will recognize and honor “hometown heroes,” including first responders, healthcare workers and employees of grocery stores, pharmacies and other life-sustaining businesses who have risked their own health to maintain essential services; another minute will demonstrate solidarity with and between elected officials and Pennsylvanians, all of whom are fighting COVID-19 together in their communities; and the other minute will “demonstrate a collective resolve that Pennsylvanians will prevail over COVID-19 and work tirelessly to ensure that their businesses and civic life will thrive once again,” a news release from the mayors association said.
Hellertown mayor David Heintzelman said he is also encouraging residents to do something special for someone in their neighborhood who is a “hometown hero,” such as calling them on the phone, sending them a note of support or dropping off baked goods.
Pennsylvania remains one of the hardest-hit states in terms of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths caused by the disease. As of Tuesday more than 1,700 residents had lost their lives to the pandemic, according to the state Department of Health.