GREENFIELD — Hundreds gathered Thursday night at The Ridge Community Church in Greenfield to mourn the victims of the shooting at Molson Coors.
"This is one of those times where our community needs to come together, and there's something about when we come together we are allowed the space to talk and to process and to grieve situations like that," said Pastor Mark Weigt. "And it's powerful."
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All were welcome to come together to grieve and process the tragedy at the iconic brewery. The church offered food, comfort dogs, and a shoulder to lean on.
"We hear you, we are aware of your pain and we're here to support you," said church member Joy Wiedenhoeft.
Six people including the gunman were shot and killed Wednesday. Thursday's service was in the victims' honor.
"It's one of those things where you just go why does it have to happen?" said church member Willie Grebe.
Like many people, Pastor Weigt said he couldn't believe it when he heard the news, especially know that some people who work there are members of his congregation.
"They're your coworkers, and they're family to you, and their family is family to you," Weigt said.
"And so whatever we can do, whatever we can show up to support, reach out, we want to be there," said church member Julie Fuerbringer. "It just makes you realize how close that is to everybody."
As the community grapples with a violent and shocking tragedy, church leaders don't want anyone to spiral into despair but move forward with a message of hope and love.
"You may not know anybody but here's the thing, you love your city," Pastor Weigt said. "And you want to show your city and the people of your city that you love your city."
