Community gathers to pray for Orlando victims

Close to 600 people gathered at Central Baptist Church in Sanford for a prayer vigil for those affected by the tragedies over the last week. The time together not only represented a time of reflection and healing but also a commitment of unity.
As young and old entered the sanctuary ushers handed a paper with helpful contact numbers. Information was offered for free counseling, churches offering free funeral services, places to volunteer to help victims and families, places for blood donations and help for families with traveling needs and the phone number for Beardall Center, where loved ones can obtain instructions on hospitals, the community and advocacy.
The evening began with a time of praise and worship with the church band inviting everyone to sing along. Several songs represented the presence of God in the midst of life and trusting in His care.
Pastors spoke of the need for prayer and love to be extended to victims and families of those lives lost and injured after the shooting at the Pulse night club in Orlando. They also prayed for the family of Christina Grimmie, who was shot after her performance over the weekend as well as the family of the 2-year-old killed by the alligator at the Disney lagoon.
Attendees were asked to gather in small groups after each message and pray for families, first responders, for the churches and for repentance both personally and for the nation. The hour and a half service included 10 churches and many community leaders.
Steve Harriett, Undersheriff for Seminole County Sheriff's Department shared, “Tonight’s service clearly demonstrated the unity in our community. We’re grateful for the leadership of our faith community to offer this opportunity to come together to show our support for the victims, their families and those who are healing both physically and emotionally from this dreadful event. The recognition of emergency first responders during tonight’s service was also very gratifying and inspirational. We thank the pastors and others who attended the prayer service for their kind and supportive comments and gestures.”
Paul Benjamin of the Central Florida Dream Center was in attendance with his wife, Dawn. He cited, "Let him who has no sin cast the first stone. Ministers and members of our city united to stand in prayer and reconciliation to see our community comforted, healed and renewed. On the shoulders of Father's Day, I hear a Loving Heavenly Father say, 'I am not waiting to condemn, but I have my robe waiting to cover and heal.' We decree healing and renewal to our nation and world."
Eddie Clay, Discipleship Pastor at Central Baptist Church added, "The events this past week in the greater Orlando area has challenged all of us to what is really important in our lives. With the two separate shooting incidents and the tragic event at Disney, many in our community are struggling with a way to deal with these tragedies in a city that is known for joy and happiness. The pastoral staff at Central Baptist Church decided along with other local ministers in the community to provide a night for the community to come together and pray for our cities. We also wanted to pray for the families and friends of those who lost their lives this past week and for those that work hard to provide safety and protection in our cities. It was wonderful to see almost 600 people gather this past Wednesday, June 15 to pray, sing and worship. In a time of tragedy, the Church should be a place for people to gather, feel the Spirit of God and find comfort in hard times. It hasn’t always been the case for many. Please know that God loves you and cares for you. Even in tragic times like we have seen this past week in our communities, good can come from such events. Our prayer for each of you to trust the one who created you and seek His will for your life. If you need council and support, there are many good Churches in Seminole County where you can find the support you need."

- Susan Wenner, Herald Staff, SWenner@MySanfordHerald.com