Friday, the eighth anniversary of the Columbine High School tragedy, Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine declared a statewide day of mourning for the victims and families of the Virginia Tech shootings. At noon a interfaith prayer service was held on the campus of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. “I ask that everyone in Virginia pause at noon on Friday to offer prayers of support for the victims, their families, and for all those affected by this tragedy,” Kaine said. The governor also asked the entire country to hold services in their states at noon and to memorialize the victims by ringing bells simultaneously at noon. On April 17 President George W. Bush encouraged the Virginia Tech community by telling them that many are praying for them. “All across America, houses of worship from every faith have opened their doors and have lifted you up in prayer,” the president said. “People who have never met you are praying for you; they're praying for your friends who have fallen and who are injured. There's a power in these prayers, real power. In times like this, we can find comfort in the grace and guidance of a loving God. As the Scriptures tell us, 'Don't be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.'”
