In the wake of Sunday’s horrific mass shooting in an Orlando nightclub, local residents are planning vigils and memorial services to honor those who lost their lives in the attack.
A prayer service will be held tonight at 5 p.m. at the Orient Congregational Church. “We were all horrified to learn of the shootings in Orlando,” said Pastor Ann Van Cleef. “We pray for the victims and their loved ones, and we pray for an end to these kinds of events.”
Residents of all faiths and backgrounds are encouraged to attend.
The Old Steeple Community Church on Main Road in Aquebogue will also be holding a memorial service tomorrow at 7 p.m.
A vigil will also be held Monday, June 20 at the Town Green in Southold. It is being organized by the Southold Town Anti Bias Task Force and will be held at the Town Green at Silversmith’s Corner, across from the IGA.
“We will stand together with people of good will in Southold Town to share our sorrow and confirm our commitment to the human dignity of all people,” said Denis Noncarrow, Southold Town’s government liaison officer.
Forty-nine people lost their lives and another 53 were wounded early Sunday morning after a gunman entered a popular gay nightclub in Orlando and began shooting.
“We are trying to honor the victims of the tragedy recognizing that any response is inadequate,” said Town Supervisor Scott Russell. “So we are doing the best we can by demonstrating our unity.”
The vigil will begin at 6:30 p.m. Monday.
