SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - For many churches across the country, Sunday was "Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath."
At one church here in San Diego, families recounted personal stories about how gun violence has impacted their lives.
Stories of loss and calls for change filled the walls of St. Stephens Cathedral in Valencia Park Sunday.
Over the past several years, 12 families within this congregation have lost a loved one to gun violence.
Frank Ramirez's son Adam was murdered on August 2nd, 2005. He was shot by a gang member, although he himself was not in a gang.
Ramirez and his wife Teresa have spent the last six years trying to curb gun violence by telling their story.
A continuing effort he says means more now than ever before.
Across the country, more than 150 churches took part in "Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath."
It was organized by Pico, a national faith based community, in response to last month's massacre in Newtown, Connecticut.
The tragedy has prompted cities everywhere to speak up about the need for more gun control.
Las week, the Chula Vista City Council adopted a resolution asking the federal government to pass tougher laws.
Elder Mark Robson says what members are striving for has nothing to do with people's second amendment rights but rather a change to how guns are sold and who winds up using them.
Pico estimates 100,000 worshippers nationwide took part in Sunday's "Gun Violence Prevention Sabbath."