HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) A group of clergy from Newtown has sent a letter to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee urging members to approve an assault weapons ban.

The letter was signed by the leaders of 11 churches in Newtown, where Adam Lanza used a military-style rifle to kill 26 people inside the Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14.

It advocates a ban on such weapons along with high capacity magazines. It also calls for universal background checks for gun owners, an end to gun trafficking, and the prosecution of straw purchasers.

The leaders also pledge to help foster a ``culture of peace.''

The Rev. Matthew Crebbin, pastor of the Newtown Congregational Church, says the group has put the letter online and is asking other clergy from across the country to sign it.