Mass in Raleigh dedicated to children, teachers killed in Texas school shooting

On Wednesday night, members of Sacred Heart Church in Raleigh came together for a service remembering the lives of students and educators.

While the investigation hasn’t determined all the victims were targeted for their ethnicity- --churchgoers said they're horrified and that the latest attacks hit close to home.

Following the deaths of 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, on Tuesday, Vanessa Salinas said she felt the need to attend mass on Wednesday night.

"[I'm] just heartbroken," said Salinas.

The expectant mother arrived at mass with her nieces and nephew — who are all school-age.

Salinas said occupying public spaces these days as person of Hispanic descent worries her and her family.

"I get chills just talking about it," said Salinas. "Who knows if mine can be next?"

Churchgoers said Wednesday night's mass gave them a place to pray together and find comfort.

"It's very important tonight," said Cecilia Reyez, who also attended the mass.

Reyez said she has family living in Texas, and even though she's over 1,000 miles away, she said prayer gives a sense of healing for families involved.

"Our service for the children is what I can do tonight," said Reyez.

Churchgoers said gathering in a sacred place to remember the lives of all impacted by violence is helping them feel empowered to make each day a little brighter.

"I just hope the world gets better in our worlds, and more of love," said Salinas.