On Dec. 12, just two days before the one-year anniversary of the Dec. 14, 2012, shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., The Newtown Foundation will join with Washington National Cathedral to host a vigil service of mourning and remembrance.
The gathering will set a tone of somber remembrance of the shooting—a tragedy that motivated many people to action. In addition to the Newtown community, the event will draw people and leaders impacted by and concerned about gun violence from across the country.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to remember and honor all of our loved ones at such a historical and majestic location in our nation’s capital,” said David Ackert, chairman of the Newtown Foundation.
“There are groups traveling from across the country to participate and we are thrilled that Carole King has offered her talent. Currently, we have two large buses traveling to the cathedral from Newtown and we are still fundraising through our website to transport more people.”
The Very Rev. Gary Hall, dean of the cathedral, said,“A year ago this Dec. 14, Americans were stunned and saddened by the shootings of 26 students and teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. The faith community has spoken with one voice over the past months demanding action to improve gun safety and reduce the number of gun deaths in our schools, on our streets, and in our workplaces.”
The Dec. 12 vigil will run from 3:45 to 5 p.m.