Mourners set up vigils at Washington, D.C. for victims of the Orlando shooting.
Christian communities have been reaching out to victims and their families, including a Southern Baptist Church two blocks away from the Orlando nightclub where 49 were killed and 53 were injured after a mass shooting incident in Orlando, Florida early Sunday morning.
The Sunday worship service at Delaney Baptist Church began “with prayer for the victims' families, law enforcement agencies and first responders,” pastor of Delaney Baptist Church Troy Peeples told The Christian Post.
After an announcement was made that blood donors were needed, many members of Delaney’s 1,900 member congregation gave blood, Peeples said.
“We are looking into ways that we can minister to the various groups impacted by this tragedy," he continued.
“We are looking forward to the soon return of Jesus Christ to make things right in this world. We are encouraged to know that Christians around the world are praying around the clock for the hurting families in Orlando. Here, locally, we want to do whatever we can to love on these families and care for them during this desperate time,” a statement on the church’s website reads.
A candlelight vigil was held on Monday at the First Parish Church.
Other churches in the community have extended offers to hold free funeral services for the victims’ families, including Florida Hospital Church, Metro Church, and Forest City Spanish Adventist Church, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
“This was not a part of God’s plan,” Pastor of Metro Church Seth Cain said in a video message on Monday. “So if there’s anything we can do for you to help you through this time, please let us know.”
