Coloradans unite to begin healing after movie massacre at premier of 'The Dark Knight Rises'

Coloradans have previous experience with recovering from a tragic shooting. Following the tragic shooting at Columbine, Coloradans learned how to pull together and heal from one of the most horrific shootings in American history. It appears that they are preparing to pull together again.

Samuel Aquila, the new archbishop of Denver, offered a mass at 5 p.m. at Queen of Peace Church in Aurora. A prayer vigil was held at 7:00 pm at Kaiser Permanente across from the location of the shooting less than 24 hours ago. Aurora Representative Rhonda Fields has also announced a prayer vigil will be held on Sunday evening at 6:30 pm. "The city of Aurora wanted to make sure they did something that would properly honor the victims. So I agree with them and I support their efforts and I don't want to be not in sync with what the city wants to do." Fields says city officials told her that they're "not in a position" to host a vigil tonight and asked that one be held on Sunday instead.

Representatives from Bonfils Blood Center have called on the public to step up and donate blood to replenish the supply that has been depleted in response to treating victims of the shooting. Bonfils is a nonprofit organization that collects and distributes blood to local hospitals. The Denver Channel reports, “Bonfils said it is particularly in need of type-O blood, type-A blood and platelets.”Appointments for blood donations at Bonfils blood center can be made by calling 303.366.2000.

Politicians, including President Obama and Mitt Romney, have pulled political attack ads scheduled to air on Denver channels until next week out of respect of the victims of the shooting. President Obama also called for flags on all government buildings to fly at half-staff today.

Thirteen victims have died and dozens of others were injured during the shooting spree. For more information on the shooting, please click here: http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/12636916-massacre-in-aurora-colorado-the-dark-knight-rises-premiere

As victims, family members of victims, community leaders and religious leaders pull together to begin the healing process- law enforcement are continuing to investigate the tragedy. As information surrounding the shooting continues to trickle in, Americans are left in shock following horrific massacre. This is a time to put your arms around your family and loved ones and acknowledge how fortunate you are to still have them there today. It is time for the nation to gather around the victims and their families as they begin to heal following this tragic shooting.

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