Vigil held to honor Surfside victims, pray for those still unaccounted for

On day five of the search and rescue mission after a condo collapsed in Surfside, a vigil was held. This to honor those whose lives were taken and to pray for the safe return of those who are still missing.

Rescuers from all across the globe are working around the clock to find family members, friends and loved ones.

Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said Monday in a press conference that first responders pulled another body from the rubble, bringing the death toll up to 11. 150 are still accounted for.

So, dozens of families gather to remember those 11 special lives that were lost and to pray for those that have yet to be found. At the vigil, there was a sense of community and togetherness but also a somber tone.

In all, more than 100 people joined to show support for the victims of the building collapse. The organizers of tonight’s vigil passed out white roses and glow sticks. Participants quietly meditated in what became a space of healing.

Igna Miller says she knows people who still haven’t been found and that this situation is difficult to grasp.

“We are all saddened. I wish there was some people they find who survived but unfortunately there’s some very sad news coming,” said Miller.

During the vigil, they also burned incense almost as if to take a moment and cleanse the air in that area. Even if you don’t know anyone who lived in the condo, it could still hit close to home.

“You hope tragedy like this doesn’t happen again. It’s really hard to cope with such things,” said Miller. “Words cannot describe this. Anguish for those who are going through this hard time.”

There are still so many people missing and as the days go by, their families can’t help but worry. Yet, they’re trying to keep the faith.