American Red Cross

Sutherland Springs Gathers Like Family to Mourn

As the sun set Monday night, the community of Sutherland Springs gathered in a parking lot to pray together, eat together and mourn together.

"We all pull together, because we are family," said Terry Faglie, of the American Red Cross, as she passed out drinks and meals.

"You know, Sunday, tragedy struck," said a pastor at the microphone. "Life was taken. Our country was shaken."

Twenty-six people were killed and about 20 others were injured in a shooting Sunday at the town's First Baptist Church.

As dusk turned to dark Monday, prayers and music filled the air.

"In a small community, you know, you don't expect that," said Janie Morales, who has lived in Sutherland Springs for more than 40 years. "I heard the shooting. I actually heard the shooting."

You don't have to have been hit by a bullet to feel the pain in Sutherland Springs.

"There is such a need for love right now," said Lee Thompson, a pastor with Gateway Church in Dallas. "I feel like we've lost understanding and acceptance. We're quick to speak our opinion without understanding theirs."

On Monday night, the crowd prayed for understand and peace.

"In the midst of the darkness, light will prevail," said a pastor, as the band played and many bowed in prayer. "Sutherland Springs and this community will be stronger than ever."

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