On Wednesday, Feb. 20, Monmouth College held a vigil for those so greatly affected by the events at Northern Illinois University (NIU). Monmouth College Chaplain Kathleen Fannin and her student chaplains led the event in The Dahl Chapel and Auditorium starting at 8 p.m.

The student chaplains led the group in prayers, scripture readings, and then Fannin opened the mic up to the audience. Senior Nicole Lynch commented on how people complain about trivial matters rather than being grateful for the blessing that is our lives.

Lynch was the only person to speak during the open mic, and then the chaplains continued the program. Senior Mark Polak read an inspiring poem that urged community growth and closeness. Polak read “A Piece of Light” by Joyce Rupp.

After the poem, Fannin read the names of the victims and where they were from. The event closed with two final prayers.

Freshman bagpiper Anthony Swindler played “Amazing Grace” on his pipes. Throughout the entire program, there were candles on the stage, and the all of lights were turned down, except for a light on the podium.

Polak, one of the student chaplains, said, “I was really happy for those present, and it was good to see the campus come together in thoughts, prayer and reflection. It is important to show NIU that we do care, and that we hold their tragedy in our prayers. We will continue to pray for the lives of those lost, as well as for hope in our world.”

“It is always comforting to know that God is always looking after us, and that he does not condemn his people,” concluded Polak. Fannin concluded the night by reminding the audience that they were “children of a loving God.”

A number of Monmouth College students, faculty and staff attended the event out of respect for the lives cut short by an act of violence.

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