A LETTER FROM THE PEOPLE AT SOJOURNERS:
Since December’s tragedy in Newtown, more than 3,200 people have been killed by guns in the United States. [1] This senseless violence needs to end.
Galvanized by the horror of Newtown, people of faith have urged Congress to pass meaningful legislation to reduce gun violence. We have written letters, signed petitions, and held events.
But Congress refuses to act, even as the number of gun deaths continues to rise. To make sure Congress hears our voice, Sojourners is joining with PICO Network (People Improving Community through Organizing) to host an interfaith prayer vigil in Washington, DC, this Thursday, April 11th at 11:30 a.m.
We’ll join hands in prayer on the National Mall surrounded by more than 3,200 wooden crosses and other religious symbols 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.
Here’s how you can get involved with our vigil to end gun violence:
- 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.
- Contact your member of Congress directly about how we can work together to end gun violence. Every voice matters, so please take a minute to offer yours and encourage others in your network to do the same.
- Sponsor a cross by making a small gift to Sojourners. Your contribution means you’ll be a part of this powerful witness!
Thanks for all you’re doing to help turn swords into plowshares (Isaiah 2:4).
[1] “How Many People Have Been Killed by Guns Since Newtown?” Slate partners with @GunDeaths for an interactive, crowdsourced tally of the toll firearms have taken since Dec. 14. [This interactive graphic shows deaths nationally by location, date, and gender and when known, gives their name.]
