Vigil At Washington National Cathedral To Remember Sandy Hook

On Thursday, December 12, just two days before the one-year anniversary of the December 14, 2012, shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., The Newtown Foundation will join with Washington National Cathedral to host a vigil. This sacred gathering will set a tone of somber remembrance of the tragic shooting—a tragedy that motivated the American people to action. In addition to the Newtown community, the event will draw over 1,000 people and leaders impacted by and concerned about gun violence from across the country.

The program will begin at approximately 3:40 p.m. when the Cathedral’s Bourden Bell will toll for 3 minutes; each minute represents ten thousand of the approximately 30,000 lives lost to gun violence in the last year.  The solemn service will encompass the themes of remembrance, resolve, hope and inspiration. The first portion will focus on remembrance with immediate family members of gun violence victims from across the country sharing their stories. The second will center on survivors and others impacted by gun violence who have become advocates. The third portion will consist of young people who have been impacted by violence concentrating on hope and inspiration moving forward.

Words and prayers will be offered by interfaith clergy members from around the country, most who have been directly impacted by gun violence. The service will also incorporate songs by the World Children’s Choir and Carole King. The vigil will conclude with a candle lighting by the entire Congregation.

The printed program, along with a live stream of the vigil will be available starting at approximately noon on Thursday, December 12 at www.newtownfoundation.org/vigil. A video tribute using photos submitted by loved ones across the country is currently available on the website.