North Hollywood Residents Honor Dead In Orlando With Interfaith Vigil
NORTH HOLLYWOOD (CBSLA.com) — About 60 people from all faiths gathered in North Hollywood Friday to remember the dead and the wounded in the terror attack and hate crime at a gay bar last week.
They gathered for an emotional vigil in which they prayed, lit candles, held hands and sang.
Many of the attendees told KCAL9's Peter Daut that they found comfort in being together and by responding to an act of hate with love.
"It was important for us to come together, and really stand and heal," said Pastor Joseph Castaneda Carrera, "and begin the process."
An alliance of Christians, Jews, Muslims and members of the LGBTQ community came together to honor the 49 people killed in the worst mass shooting in US history.
The flickering candles were able to bring light to so much darkness.
"We're Americans, we're Muslims," said Momal Igbal with Muslims for Progressive Values, "and we're proud to be here and be of support for the community."
Dozens of mourners, young and old, filled the North Hollywood Metro Station before marching to a nearby park.
"We have to keep united as a community," said Madalyn Ambrosini, a transgender advocate. "We cannot be in fear."
Those who gathered said it was a time of immense pain but also one of solidarity.
"If we're going to get along, if we're going to care about our community, all the parts of the community have to participate," said one woman.