Pacific Lutheran University

Here are some photos from the vigil.

Earlier in the day the university’s Chapel service was held in honor of the four officers.

In trying times, ‘care for one another’

People from the PLU community trickled into Lagerquist Concert Hall Monday morning, their hearts a little heavier and their minds somber in a place of such joy.

The violent and senseless deaths of four Lakewood Police Officers the Sunday before brought the community together to pay homage to the fallen and build hope and healing.

“A few decades back there was a popular song that urged us to ‘lean on me when you are not strong,’” PLU President Loren J. Anderson said to the assembled crowd at the chapel service. “In our weakness today, I urge us to lean on one another, care for one another, be kind to one another.”

“On this day of loss, may the gift of life, the gift of one another be our solace, may it give us strength as we move forward,” he added.

These officers were a part of this community. They lived something PLU urges its own students to reach for – lives of service.

“As we stand in solidarity with the families, friends and colleagues of the four slain officers, I urge us to work together as a community to find ways that we can contribute; ways that can express our sympathy and care; ways that we can show support for all who daily take risks and serve; new ways that we can help to build a community of opportunity for all,” Anderson said. “As we do, we will honor the legacy of these officers and perhaps, just perhaps, we will advance the cause of peace and reduce the reign of violence.”

With that, a moment of silence was observed for Sgt. Mark Renninger, Officer Tina Griswold, Officer Ronald Owens and Officer Greg Richards.  A bell chimed after each of their names.