Holding candles and joining voices, more than 30 people gathered Friday for a community vigil at Houlton United Methodist Church to remember those killed, detained and deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection.
The evening service for hope, peace and remembrance included prayer and song, and began inside before moving outdoors, holding light in the darkness. Pictures of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti were displayed, as poems written by Amanda Gorman to honor their lives were read.
People read the names of victims killed by agents, each name followed by a response of “We remember.” Participants expressed support for others who have been affected by the federal government crackdown, including those helping immigrants, children and law enforcement.
As the vigil concluded, those participating placed their candles in the snow and were invited to make commitments toward service, hope, justice and peace.
