Hundreds attend vigil at Pocatello Mosque
It’s been four days since the terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand that killed 50 people. The world is still mourning, including the local Muslim community. A candle light vigil was held at the Pocatello Mosque on Tuesday night to honor those victims.
The night started with leaders of the Pocatello Mosque thanking everyone for their support. They said those behind these attacks want to divide people, but Tuesday’s event showed that denouncing hate actually brings everyone together. Leaders of different faiths and communities were invited up to say a prayer and offer words of encouragement. They said Tuesday’s event is representative of what this community is all about.
“All of us want to have peace on earth,” said Larry Fisher, regional public affairs director for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “And when something like this happens, it’s such a tragedy. So, what can we do on the other side of the world? Coming together like this shows our support in that. And we can pray for those people. And also we can build our own community to help keep the hate out of our own community.”
There were many tears and some laughter throughout the vigil. It was called both a sad day and a wonderful day. One special moment was when faith leader, Big Momma, urged everyone turn to their neighbor and say that they love them.
Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad was also there. He said Pocatello is no longer a place where people judge each other and is also no longer going to tolerate hatred.
