Church services in the Atlanta area on Sunday were filled with grief, pain, hope, and faith as the community grappled with the aftermath of the recent deadly school shooting. At Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, teacher Brooke Lewis-Slamkova shared her harrowing experience of being in the school during the lockdown. She recounted the moment when law enforcement officers entered her classroom, signaling the severity of the situation.
After ensuring the safety of her students, Lewis-Slamkova witnessed heartwarming acts of kindness among the students and parents at the scene. The community came together to support each other in the face of tragedy, demonstrating resilience and compassion.
Meanwhile, Pastor Jason Britt at Bethlehem Church acknowledged the shock and sorrow felt by the congregation following the school violence. The tragic event has deeply affected many members of the community who have connections to the high school where the shooting took place.
The suspect, Colt Gray, has been charged with murder for the deaths of two students and two teachers. His father, Colin Gray, also faces charges for providing the weapon used in the shooting. As details about the suspect and his family emerge, including a warning call made to the school before the incident, the community continues to grapple with the tragedy.
Despite the pain and uncertainty, the church services aimed to provide comfort and solace to those affected. Rev. Frank Bernat emphasized the importance of coming together as a community to support one another during this difficult time. The congregation was invited to a special evening service to mourn, reflect, and find strength in unity.
In the midst of the sorrow, Lewis-Slamkova shared a message of faith and resilience, reminding the community that love will prevail. As the community continues to process the tragedy, the support and solidarity shown in the church services serve as a beacon of hope in the face of darkness.
