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Crowds gathered under a slivered moon Monday night to mourn the six victims of last week’s mass shooting at a Chesapeake Walmart. Local leaders, as well as Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, spoke to the community about Tuesday night’s violence.
Attendees look on as Pastor Jose Morelos speaks. “I will pray in Spanish,” Morelos said. “I suspect – as a matter of fact, I believe – that our Lord, our God, speaks both English and Spanish.” It was a moment of levity for the somber crowd holding candles aloft. “Tú eres nuestro refugio en el día de la angustia,” said Morales, meaning “You are our refuge on days of anguish.” He continued, “Cúbrenos con tu paz y con tu amor.” “Cover us with your peace and with your love."
Mayor Rick West called last week’s mass shooting “our darkest hour since we united and became a city called Chesapeake.” He praised faith leaders for coming to the vigil.
Rabbi David Weiss of Kingdom Impact Messianic Congregation told attendees, “I just encourage you to be patient. Don't let anyone tell you it's time to get over it. Take all the time you need to grieve and to heal – and know that your loved one, more than anything, wants your life to count for something.”
“I pledge that our administration will work across party lines,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin, who spoke at the vigil. “We will work together to chart a path forward for better mental and behavioral health so that we can serve all Virginians, and so that we can love one another.”
