By: Diana Johnsen
djohnsen@kcautv.com
They are names of those that are gone but will never be forgotten.
The 26 victims from the Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting in Newtown, Connecticut were read aloud at the beginning of the Westlawn Presbyterian Church's Sunday morning service in Sioux City.
"It puts something more in it than just some people were killed when he read those names," said Pat Christensen, a former teacher and a member of the church.
The church may be miles away from Connecticut but that did not stop them from pouring out their love and support for those tied to the school shooting.
"I get asked, what can we do here in Sioux City, we're so far away? And the one thing that I come up with is that we can pray," said Pastor Paul Speidel of Westlawn Presbyterian.
Through a short prayer, a brief moment of silence, and a reading of the names at the beginning of their service, the church's thoughts were with the families and loved ones of the tragedy.
"It just brings tears to my eyes," said Sarah Keleher, a young mother of Westlawn Presbyterian. "I just picture my own children, and I couldn't imagine if they were suddenly gone....the absolute sorrow those parents must feel."
And, with the holiday season among us, the church said their thoughts and prayers will continue for the families through this time and for the many years to come.
"It'll be a long, long time. In fact, I don't think I'll ever forget it," said Christensen.
