Since the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School, many members of the community continue to struggle to heal. The Rev. James A. Forbes Jr., who led one of the country's most prominent liberal Protestant churches, plans to speak in Newtown and bring the town together at a worship service honoring the victims of last month's school shooting.
The event takes place on the day before our country recognizes the sacrifice and life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Local clergy in Newtown believe there is no better time to recognize those that lost their lives at Sandy Hook Elementary on December 14th. Forbes is scheduled to deliver a sermon Sunday evening inside the Newtown Congregational Church.
He is internationally known for his work as a preacher and was recently named by Newsweek as one of the top 12 most effective preachers. His sermon will consist of reminding people to believe in hope.
On Sunday afternoon, Forbes spoke to about 50 religious leaders from throughout Connecticut about the importance of not rushing the healing process. He also told religious leaders they need support too.
"The idea is that when you are on the front lines of trying to help people, we need support, so he had some scripture so we can share that God is with us in our anguish and in our joy," said Kathy Cunliffe, from Southington.
A large turnout is expected at this event. The prayer worship begins at 7:30 p.m.
Forbes is senior minister emeritus of historic Riverside Church in New York City and retired from there in 2007.