In a show of solidarity and remembrance, the Multnomah County community is set to swiftly come together for an interfaith vigil and memorial service to honor and grieve for youth impacted by violence. Scheduled for Sunday, April 28, the event will mark an integral part of the National Youth Violence Prevention Week activities, aiming to unite residents from all backgrounds in shared reflection and resolve.
At Augusta Lutheran Church located at 2710 NE 14th Avenue, Portland, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., leaders from various faith traditions will ceremonially gather, offering a solemn space for music, poetry, and communal healing. "We are deeply committed to supporting the well-being of our youth and fostering a sense of unity and resilience in our community," Charlene McGee, County Prevention and Health Promotion Director, told Multnomah County News.
A poignant candlelight vigil stands as a central part of the ceremony, alongside a bell-ringing ritual to pay homage to the young lives cut short by violent acts. Through the observance, the community will aim to ignite—and not only momentarily feel—the pressing need for continued support and decisive measures to ensure no more young lives are lost.
"In times of tragedy, it is essential for us to come together as a community to support one another and find solace in our shared humanity," expressed Pastor Mark Knutson of Augustana Lutheran Church in Multnomah County News. The interfaith service, poised to offer a haven for healing, reflection, and renewal, stands as a testament to shared grief and the collective aspiration to see the community's youth thrive amidst adversity.
Funding from the Preventing Violence Affecting Young Lives (PREVAYL) Grant supports the county's work with youth, endorsing an upstream public health approach. Focused on influencing policies and environmental changes, the strategy aims to tackle the underlying causes that fuel violence. By fostering safer environments and addressing health-related social determinants, the PREVAYL Grant endeavors to foster a more peaceful future for the young population.
Community members are welcomed to attend this event, extending an invitation towards solidarity for the affected youth and a renewed commitment towards cultivating peace and unity. The service promises not only to honor the memories of those lost but also to galvanize a movement towards proactive measures against youth violence.
