Murrysville Residents Pray For Stabbing Victims At Vigils
MURRYSVILLE (KDKA) -- Churches in Murrysville opened their doors for prayer services and vigils Wednesday evening following the stabbing rampage at Franklin Regional High School that left more than 20 people hurt.
The congregation at Calvary Lutheran Church offered prayers and songs in support for the victims and their families. The school's campus is right across the street.
Rev. David Weeks told members that there is no explanation for why it happened.
"I can share with you God's word and try to explain one of the foundations of our belief system as Christian human beings," said Rev. Weeks.
But he told members they can support the families lighting a candle and holding a vigil across from the campus.
"In honor of those victims, in honor of the families that wait for good news of their recovery, in solidarity with the rest of the community, we'll stand, we'll stand and have our candles lit," he said.
One by one, members lit candles and lined up on the curbside to say a prayer.
"I don't know the victims, but my heart is with them and their families," said Joy Humbert, a church member.
"I think if we can offer our prayers for those that have been affected," added Steve Wutzke, another church member. "It's important to do it."
For some, the vigil was an opportunity to show solidarity in the community and to pray for the suspect.
"We carry the love for all the kids and the families, and even for the person that did this," said church member Barb Stuffer.
"Here again we're witnessing young people being hurt and I feel very strongly that we need to address the underlying issues," Joan Smeltzer, another church member, added.
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