Congregations gather for comfort after shooting
ORLANDO (FOX 13) - Hearts remain heavy in Orlando, as the community mourns victims of the deadly attack on the Pulse nightclub.
Orlando churches are working to lift the weight with song and fellowship between the pews.
“Love triumphs over evil.”
Those were the words heard by hundreds who gathered at Orlando’s First Baptist Church.
The victims were honored, one-by-one; 49 names, 49 souls, 49 people to pray for.
"In life's darkest and hardest moments, we have to turn to those areas where we find stability," said Senior Associate Pastor Danny de Armas.
Those who gathered said they believe stability often comes from strength – both physical and spiritual.
The Orlando community came together to find both inside a moving prayer service at First Baptist Church.
“We’ll grieve together and cry together, and grieve with hope,” the pastor said.
That hope lifted up the hundreds in attendance, some who knew the victims and many who did not, but still felt personally touched.
It's been one gut-punch after another for Tampa's neighbor to the northeast, from the shocking murder of singer Christina Grimmie, to the unthinkable tragedy at Pulse Nightclub, and reports of a child taken by an alligator at a Disney resort.
But for all the loss, confusion and sadness, much has also been given.
“Words can’t express the expression of love and compassion the world has extended to Orlando,” Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said.
It’s a city down - but not out, where residents come together in front of 49 names, 49 souls, 49 people to pray for.