Photos: CNY Vigils held for Newtown Shooting Victims Dryden (WSYR-TV) -- The heartbreak of families in Newtown is resounding with families in Central New York. Wednesday night, dozens gathered in Dryden and Oswego for candlelight vigils.
26 candles were lit in Dryden, one for each life lost at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Still trying to come to grips with the unimaginable, people in Dryden found comfort in each other.
“Each of us is trying to understand what has happened and what it is that we can do. First we must take the steps in grieving and in remembrance,” said the pastor leading the service.
"My heart goes out to all the families, especially you know, no matter what time of year it's horrible, but you know I think it's just a kick in the gut to have it right before Christmas,” said Erin Baker who attended the vigil in Dryden.
Standing side-by-side, those attending the vigil found strength through prayer.
"We may not be able to do anything for those in Connecticut but pray for them, but we're here because we care about what's happened,” said Donna Vantine, who also attended the vigil.
Under the candles, just out of sight, is a growing pile of stuffed animals, which will eventually be delivered to Newtown, Connecticut.
"We want to do something. We want to reach out to a community in need. It could be any community in America. It could be here,” Dryden Mayor Randy Sterling said.
It was much of the same at a vigil held at Oswego’s Breitbeck Park. A solemn silence fell over the crowd as leaders read the name and birth date of each victim. Green and white balloons were also released in remembrance of the victims.
