MADISON, Wis. — On Tuesday evening, residents across Madison came together for vigils to honor the victims and start processing the tragic events of the previous day, when a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School resulted in the deaths of a student and a teacher, along with several injuries.

People from various backgrounds, some connected to the school community and others not, stood united in their grief over the shocking incident.

Hundreds congregated at the state Capitol for a public vigil organized by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County, lighting candles and signing three crosses displayed on the grounds.

During the vigil, Charles Moore, executive director of Impact Christian Schools, which includes Abundant Life, shared with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, part of the YSL News Network, that “it’s hard to grasp the shock” of what occurred. He mentioned that while faculty and staff train and pray for such emergencies, actually facing one was beyond their imagination, and the school would remain closed until after Christmas break.

He urged the community to continue their prayers for everyone affected.

“There are still several seriously injured children in the hospital,” Moore stated. “The impact does not stop after the first day or the initial moments; lives have been irrevocably changed.”

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway addressed the crowd, expressing that the city would be forever altered and encouraging residents to support each other as they navigate the challenging times ahead.

“Let us create a community where we are quick to lend a helping hand to those in need,” urged Rhodes-Conway. “Let’s focus on caring for everyone affected by this act of gun violence.”

‘An opportunity to allow individuals to share their stories’

Renee Moe, the CEO of United Way of Dane County, advised parents to listen attentively to their children in the following days, minimize their media exposure, and discuss how to support one another.

“There’s no manual for how to move ahead,” Moe noted.

As the vigil came to a close at the Capitol, five golden retrievers and their handlers arrived on-site. These dogs have completed over 2,000 hours of training in emotional support. Many attendees, overwhelmed with emotion, sought solace by spending quiet moments with the dogs.

“Several individuals approached us wanting to step away from the discussions and just spend time quietly with the dogs,” said Rev. Chris Singer, president and CEO of Lutheran Church Charity. “This interaction allows people to begin to relax, as studies indicate.”

Singer shared with the Journal Sentinel that their ministry has 127 trained dogs across 27 states, responding during crises. He recalled recent instances where these dogs provided comfort to families affected by Hurricane Helene.

Alongside therapy dogs like Samson, a 6-year-old golden retriever trained for these moments since he was eight weeks old, Lutheran Church Charity also had spiritual responders present at the vigil to assist people dealing with the overwhelming grief in the atmosphere.

“We provide a chance for individuals to express their stories, experiences, and feelings. We’re specially trained and certified to assist them, especially if they’re feeling stuck,” said Singer. “We offer that comfort and reassurance during difficult times.”

“Love exists in countless forms, even when we struggle to see it.”

Community comes together in prayer and music

On Tuesday, outside the City Church in Madison—a non-denominational Christian congregation adjacent to Abundant Life Christian School—traffic filled the parking lot as police diligently checked each vehicle and pedestrian, ensuring they were there for the vigil. Cars lined up for over half a mile, waiting to get in.

After a powerful performance, Lead Pastor Tom Flaherty expressed gratitude to first responders and those who provided nourishment and support throughout the day. He quoted Psalms, encouraging attendees who were present during the school shooting not to hold any self-blame for their actions or inactions.

“What occurred at ALCS yesterday was horrific,” Flaherty remarked. “For reasons we may never understand, God permitted this to happen.”

Before inviting everyone to share a moment of silence, Flaherty urged attendees to let God’s comfort into their hearts.

Tributes of candles and flowers at Abundant Life Christian School

On Tuesday morning, Megan Mojica and Kamila Reynolds placed candles outside the school. Both are bus drivers in the Madison area, and they came to pay tribute to the victims and support the grieving families affected by the shooting.

Mojica shared that her own son experienced gun violence when he was involved in a shooting at Waukesha South High School in 2019, where a police officer shot and wounded a student armed with a pellet gun. She offered guidance to those impacted by the recent tragedy.

“My son was the one who had a gun pointed at him,” Mojica recalled. “I understand what it’s like to endure such fear. Surround yourself with loved ones because, over time, healing will come.”

Reynolds expressed her shock about the situation.

“(Madison) is a wonderful town,” she said. “So for something like this to happen. it comes as such a shock.”

After lighting the candles and speaking with reporters, the two women took a moment to pray with a chaplain.

Vigil held at Middleton’s Blackhawk Church

In the aftermath of the shooting, staff from Blackhawk Church in Middleton organized a spontaneous evening prayer service. Their aim was to provide a “safe and sacred space” for individuals seeking solace and prayer, according to executive pastor Craig Gartland.

Approximately 200 people attended the service, Gartland noted, many of whom were not regular visitors at Blackhawk Church.

“It’s essential to come together as a community and extend support to those feeling anxious or scared,” Gartland stated.

The church, which hosts around 4,000 attendees each Sunday, has a scheduled “Blue Christmas” service on Tuesday night for those experiencing grief during the holidays, making it particularly significant this year.