Obama meets with victims' families, addresses nation

NEWTOWN, Conn. (WHDH) -- The president traveled to Newton on Sunday to meet with families of the victims from the Sandy Hook Elementary massacre and then addressed the nation on the tragedy.

“Here in Newtown, I come to offer the love and prayers of a nation,” Obama said in his address.

First meeting with the parents of the victims and sharing a hug with the brothers and sisters of those shot and killed in the sandy hook school massacre.

“Whatever portion of sadness we can share with you to ease this heavy load, we will gladly bear it. Newtown, you are not alone,” Obama said, his voice full of emotion.

The president also praised the teachers who gave their lives that day.

"They responded as we all hope we might respond in such terrifying circumstance. With courage and with love. Giving their lives to protect the children in their care,” he said.

This is the fourth time President Obama has come to a community in the wake of a mass shooting, until now resisting call to change gun laws.

But this time without mentioning gun laws specifically suggested his reponse will be different.

“We can’t tolerate this anymore. These tragedies must end. And to end them, we must change,” he said.

The president spoke for less than 20 minutes and in the end brought his thoughts back to the children and teachers as he named each victim.

Just as he comforted the families in private, he now comforted a nation.

“May God bless and keep those we have lost in his heavenly place. May he grace those we still have with his holy comfort,” said Obama.

The president said Sunday was the toughest day yet of his entire presidency.