SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas — The First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs announced Wednesday that a project to create a permanent memorial is in the works to honor the lives of the 26 people killed in a shooting at the church in 2017.
This comes just days after demolition of the old church building began after a long battle among the church community to preserve it, sparking public outcry from former members of the church when the walls officially came down on Monday.
According to a press release, the memorial will be a space for healing, reflection and spiritual encouragement and will be open to the community 24/7.
Church officials say the decision to move forward with the memorial comes as they recognize the “deep emotional connection many had with the old building and delayed the clearance of the sanctuary to give everyone more time to process their feelings.”
“This permanent memorial is more than just a physical space,” said Pastor Abner Neill. “It is a symbol of our commitment to remember and honor those who were tragically taken from us. We pray it serves as a palace of solace and reflection for all.”
The church says removal of the old building is expected to be completed by this weekend.
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