Valley residents preach peace in wake of nationwide violence

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- One parishioner said that prayer is the best gift you can give to someone you don't know.

Many in the valley kept the mourning families in Dallas, Minnesota and Louisiana in their prayers.

The violence in Dallas stunned many around the country.

Flags around the Valley flew at half-staff and for the faithful at St. John's Cathedral in Downtown Fresno, this was a time to offer spiritual support.

"My heart breaks," Sheena Moreno said. "It breaks every time, not just Dallas but everything that's going on around the world. It's heart-breaking. You just want to help everyone but you can't so you send your prayers."

Moreno lit a candle for the five police officers in Dallas.

"When I was in there I did a Native American song and prayers for all those who are hurting," Daniel Chapa said. "We always say give help wherever help is needed."

People of many different faiths did the same.

"I think in this culture respect is lost," Moreno said. "We don't see it as much."

At Northside Christian Church in Clovis, pastor Lito Solorio says things won't change until people stop turning to hate. The Dallas tragedy will make its way into his Sunday sermon.

"It just gives me so much hurt and anxiety over raising even my own kids in this culture today because they're missing an opportunity where they could see the human race come together," he said. "Yes, there's going to be bad things happening but let's not respond in hurting more people."

It is a feeling shared by many in the valley.

"It's just sad, but we just pray for them," Vera Rodarte said. "We have such a beautiful country."