The flag flew at half staff outside city hall.City leaders gathered around the podium with members of the community.
Fresno's mayor didn't hold back tears.
“I just apologize in advance for the emotion. But I don't think we can get through what we need to do tonight without being able to express our deep sorrow for what happened earlier today,” she said.
Mayor Ashley Swearengin encouraged the community to comfort one another.
To mourn in solidarity for the victims of Connecticut...
“In coming together in prayer we believe and we hope that someone being together tonight will make a difference for what people are going through thousands of miles away from here,” she said.
Local religious leaders from different faiths prayed for the same purpose.
The Imam of Islamic Cultural Center said, “We pray today for peace and healing and wisdom.”
A local Pastor said, “the soul of America is sick right now, but [Lord] you give us a remedy.”
The head of the children's movement had a message for Fresno families.
“I think for us this is call to action for each in community to be mindful that our actions impact our children,” said Kendra Rogers.
The series of speeches...capped off with the Mayor's call for healing.
“I encourage Fresnans to do that. I also want to ask people to pray in their own faith tradition. I believe that prayer works. I know that prayer works,” the Mayor said.
