News from Vancouver, WA

More than 40 people attended the Vancouver, WA vigil at the beautiful St. Paul Lutheran Church in downtown Vancouver. Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt spoke about a childhood friend being killed by a boy playing with an unsecured shotgun. Andrea Banister shared her story, for the first time publicly, about surviving the Columbine High School massacre. In between speakers the crowd listened to the talented Lauren and Jordan Berg sing a beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace and The Lord Keep and Bless You. The names of the 19 people shot in Tucson, AZ on January 8, 2011 were read and members of the crowd stood up to share the name of a loved one lost to gun violence. As candles were being lit, cellist Theresa Mammerella played The Swan which brought many of the attendees to tears. Pastor Chris Nolte and Vicar Matt Anderson led prayers throughout the program. It was a wonderful and moving vigil!