On December 14, 2012, as news spread about the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., composer Lloyd Larson — like so many of us — was devastated by the senseless loss of life. In the face of such intractable gun violence, how do we hold on to hope and keep moving forward when the odds feel overwhelming?
With the help of nine theologians, pastors, and advocates, Sojourners magazine’s December 2013 cover article “Grief, Courage, and Perseverance” seeks to answer this question. Larson also offers solace and hope through his composition “Dwell in the Light Forevermore,” a choral piece dedicated to “all who grieve and in memory of the children and adults of Sandy Hook Elementary School.”
Read these reflections on grief and determined hope one year after Newtown. And as you do, let Larson’s music (with lyrics below by Susan Bentall Boersma) minister to your soul.
Into the valley of shadows, under a veil of gray,
God calls the good and faithful, then guides us on the way.
Through the valley of shadows, lost in the dark of night,
Our God goes before us to lead us to the light.There will be no more night!
No need for lamp or ray of sun, the Lamb will be the light.
There will be no more night!
No need to fast, to watch, to weep around the throne so bright.
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