The massacre at a church in Charleston South Carolina earlier this week has challenged the sense of security for many as they prepare to gather once again in what is normally a sanctuary.
Sunday will be the first time many people step back into church since the massacre in Charleston and churchgoers in Boston have mixed emotions.
"I think people will think twice. I think people will have to realize, I'm going to church, the one place that I thought was safe for me. That's the place that turned out not to be safe," said Rev. Bob Gray, Bethel A.M.E. church, Boston.
Earlier this week, nine people were shot to death at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.The shooting is hitting home at Bethel AME church in Jamaica Plain. As much as this violence has tested churchgoers faith, it has also showcased it.
As the shooting suspect was arraigned Friday, the daughter of one of the victims told him she forgives him.
"That was extremely powerful to see the family say that they forgive I think that while they do say that they forgive we cannot forget at the same time so I believe there is still a call to justice but it's very powerful but that is what it really means to be a Christian," said Rev. Daryl Lobban, Bethel A.M.E. church, Boston.
Boston police have offered local churches extra security as they hold services Sunday.
