City Asks Churches to Ring Bells in Honor of Sandy Hook Victims

The city of Lilburn is joining other efforts around the state to honor on Friday the 26 lives lost in the recent Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

"This tragedy has affected us all, as the greatest fear of any parent is losing a child," said Lilburn City Manager Bill Johnsa. 

Like other municipalities, Lilburn officials are asking that on Dec. 21 churches ring their bells 26 times in remembrance of the 26 people -- 20 children and six adults -- who were victims of the second deadliest school shooting in America's history.

"As a parent, my heart goes out to these families," Johnsa added. "As a city, this unified act by our churches is a clear way to express our sympathy and support to Newtown."

The commemoration is to take place at 9:30 a.m., the time of the shooting massacre.

"We appreciate consideration of this request as our entire nation grieves over this horrific tragedy," city officials also said in a press release.

On Dec. 18, Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy issued a nationwide request, calling on all governors to consider a moment of silence on Dec. 21. in remembrance of the Newtown, Conn., victims. 

In his own state, Malloy asked all churches and government facilities with the capability to ring their bells 26 times.

"In the last few days, the outpouring of love and compassion from your state and around the world has been overwhelming, and the people of Connecticut will be forever grateful," Malloy said in a letter to state leaders. "Too often we focus on what divides us as people, instead of what binds us together as human beings.

"The sense of community that has emerged in the wake of this tragedy should not be lost as we begin to emerge from this national tragedy, and I ask you to join with me and the citizens of Connecticut to remember the loved ones lost last Friday."

-- Will you join the nationwide call for a moment of silence and remembrance? Let us know why this tragedy has touched you in the comment section. --