To symbolize our prayers for Uvalde, the lives that were lost and the families, friends, and loved ones who are grieving, we will light 22 luminarias for 22 days outside St. Philip’s Episcopal Church & School. Similarly, at noon each day for 22 days we will toll the bell 22 times. We invite you to join us in this prayer of light and bells.
You may wonder why 22 when nineteen children and two teachers were killed. We have included the shooter because, regardless of what he has done, he also is someone’s child and a child of God. We are all more than what has happened to us or we have done and left undone.
We will offer a service of Evening Prayer: Lament and Hope, Light in the Darkness on Thursday, May 26th, at 6:00 p.m. central time in person and online via the St. Philip’s Facebook page. All are welcome.
Interrupting the Silence 
I humbly applaud you for the Twenty two candles – nothing more can be said about this most tragic event.
But these three remain:
Faith, Hope and Love
And the greatest is Love
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Lord take those 22 souls taken from us into your heavenly kingdom and let them rest peacefully in eternity with you. Comfort the families friends community suffering through this tragedy and restore peace love faith forgiveness back into their life’s as only you can do. 🙏🏼
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This is a beautiful idea. I’m sure it will be moving and appreciated. The bells are great, ringing for the whole area to hear, and candlelight is calming for me. Thank you.
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We will pray alongside you
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Thank you very much.
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Mike thank you. I will go everyday for 22 days to sit in the Columbarium with Brian and others to pray and hear the bell toll 22 times.
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Thank you and peace to ALL.
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Reblogged this on Tending to the Margins and commented:
The pastor of this Uvalde congregation is a wonderful guide for followers of the Way. I have followed his blog a long time, and as this tragedy happened directly in his hometown, I really want to be present to hear his words of healing and hope tonight at 7pm EST. His invitation to light 22 candles and to stop at noon for the ringing of 22 bells each day is powerful, as well. These rituals give our bodies insight into how to heal through love and action. LeAnn
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Michael, when I first heard the word “Uvalde” my heart lurched, as I knew these were your people. I am praying God’s wisdom and power to move through the intensity of this time for you and your congregation. I will be with you tonight for your vigil. With you in Christ, LeAnn
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I follow your writing and thought of you immediately. I am glad you are there for the families. Though I am sure it is a heavy time for your heart. Praying for you as you minister. Blessings.
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Father Mike,
I have been holding you and all you minister to in prayer from the moment I heard “Uvalde”. Prayers for peace, strength, rest, and light in the darkness. Know that you are held in prayer and I share in your tears. May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
In Christ’s Love,
Erika
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