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Vigil for peace brings people of all beliefs and backgrounds together in Norwich

The vigil was hosted by the Norwich Area Interfaith Association on Tuesday evening.

NORWICH, Conn. — In moments of darkness, people of all different beliefs and backgrounds stood together in Norwich on Tuesday hoping to be a beacon of light.

"In times like these we feel we must respond," said Rev. David Horst of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Norwich.

The Norwich Area Interfaith Association invited members of the community together Tuesday evening, calling for peace and reconciliation to end the suffering felt by so many around the world.

"We are well aware of the divisions. Well aware of that. Yet we say let’s gather here in community in Norwich community. And grieve, and be angry, to cry and to pray," Horst said.

Also, to speak and to listen to each others’ points of view.

"There’s a common ground in that we’re all the children of God it’s pure and simple. My bible says we’re all children of God," said Rabbi Julius Rabinowitz of Beth Jacob Synagogue in Norwich.

During a time of division and conflict, the Norwich community wants to send a message of unity.

"We have people all across the world living in Norwich and we want to give a message of solidarity, message of peace," said Swaranjit Singh Khalsa of the Norwich city council.

But, recognizing in order for there to be peace there must be action.

"Peace is not to gather and sing and dance about peace. That is not the real peace. Peace is to live in tranquility," said one man speaking at the vigil.

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People called on each other to stand up.

"I think we as Americans have a duty to empower our federal leaders so they can play the role and help mediate the civil unrest that is happening all around the world," Khalsa said.

The hope was also for people to find comfort in being together, if even just for a few moments.

"There’s only one true definition of the word peace and that’s living in harmony with our brothers and sisters," said Rev. Benjamin Green of Evans Memorial AME Zion Church in Norwich.

Gaby Molina is a reporter and anchor at FOX61 News. She can be reached at mmolina@fox61.com. Follow her on FacebookX and Instagram.

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