Interfaith Prayer Vigil to Reduce Gun Violence

December’s unspeakable tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary shocked the nation. Since then, some 3,200 people have been killed by guns in the United States. People of faith have called on Congress to pass meaningful legislation to reduce gun violence, and because of your help, we’re sending them another powerful message.

Sojourners is joining with PICO Network to host an interfaith prayer vigil in Washington, DC, this Thursday, April 11th at 11:30 a.m.

A display of more than 3,200 wooden crosses and other religious symbols will be the backdrop of this event, symbolizing those who have lost their lives to gun violence in the United States since Newtown.

We’ll join hands in prayer on the National Mall to commemorate those who have died since the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. All last week, Sojourners staff and volunteers have been building crosses and preparing for Thursday’s witness.

People like you have sponsored the building of these crosses and signed our letter to Congress. Most importantly, you’ve prayed for meaningful gun legislation to pass.

Thanks to all the donors out there who’ve personally sponsored crosses. Here are some of their powerful dedication messages:

"Thank you for your continuing witness to the terrible toll of gun violence."

"Michael Schaab"

"Unknown young boys who are being killed in Chicago and other cities around our country. God help us."

"Julian"

"In memory of all the children shot while they slept, ate, studied, played or traveled. We pledge to change the laws so that other children in America will not be murdered as they live their daily lives."

"In reflection on our National tragedies"

"In solidarity with those whose lives have been shattered by gun violence ~ Peace be with them."

We feel truly blessed to have such dedicated support; it enables us to be at the forefront of the Christian social justice movement, informing, inspiring, and challenging concerned people to be socially active around the world.

Mark your calendar and lift up a prayer with us 11:30 EST on Thursday morning that our elected officials would put aside their differences and pass common sense solutions to reduce gun violence on our streets and in our communities. 

Brandon Baird is the Individual Giving Assistant at Sojourners.