In response to the Newtown, Connecticut shooting Friday, First United Methodist Church will hold a prayer vigil Monday night.
“This will be to honor the ones who have lost their lives,” said Rev. Danny Allen, senior pastor of FUMC.
The shooter allegedly killed his mother then drove to an elementary school where he killed 20 children and six adults before taking his own life.
“Persons who are able are asked to come between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday evening to offer intercessory prayers for the families of the 20 children and 6 adults who died.  The day will conclude with closing worship at 6:30 pm.”
Allen said the sanctuary would be open as early as 9 a.m. to allow the community a peaceful place for prayer.
Lorre Bowen, a member of FUMC, said the church would provide paper and pens so that people can write a note to send to the school.
“I think it will possibly help them to know that so many people care about them,” Bowen said. “We can’t be there in person to do something for those families so we can pray.”
Bowen said many lives had been touched by the tragedy, especially those with children and grandchildren. Some of her friends reported how devastated their children were by news of the shooting.
“It’s hard to explain this to children,” Bowen said. “That it happened at this time of the year makes the pain increasingly difficult.”
Several members of the church approached Allen, asking what could be done for those who were saddened by the news, said Susie Taylor, a member of the church. Members wanted to offer a way to help the community cope with the tragedy.
“I think this a great idea. We just really need to be aware of our surrounding community, not just here in Washington, but around the world,” Taylor said.
Allen said he agreed with the presidents statement, that there have been too many tragedies like this.
“We must do a better job of caring for one another in our communities,” he said. “We still are our ‘brother’s keeper.’”

FUMC is located at 304 West 2nd Street in Washington. For more information, call 946-3311.