St. Mary’s Catholic Church held a candle-light vigil for students and members of the community on Tuesday, February 28, 2012. The inside of the church was packed with families, students and staff of Chardon High School, and even students from area schools. Junior Justin Weir jokingly claimed, “It was hard to breathe because of the amount of people in the church.” But the crowd did not end there. Thousands of people came to show their support and grieve in their own way as well as to watch the speakers as they were broadcast on a screen outside of the building. The crowds filled the front lawn of St. Mary’s. Nick Paull, a Chardon junior, stated, “It was a real special moment in which the community gathered together and showed their support.” Even students from the surrounding area schools showed their support for the Chardon community and its citizens.LakeCatholic, Ledgemont, West Geauga, Mentor, Painesville-Harvey, Painesville-Riverside and Cardinal were a few of the schools with students who attended the vigil. “I appreciated the abundance of people showing their support for us,” remarked junior, Tyler Gardner. Area firefighters and police officers attended, reminding students of their presence the day before.

A student-organized choir and band offered beautiful music. Principal Andy Fetchik spoke as well as Superintendent Joseph Bergant, commending the students and the teachers of Chardon High School for their courageous acts and their strength. Governor John Kasich gave a speech, recalling the death of both his parents from a fatal car accident. Governor Kasich spoke about the importance of friends, like the ones who helped him through his own rough time.Gardneralso expressed, “The governor gave some very powerful words.” At the end of Governor Kasich’s speech, he mentioned the fire that occured in Chardon during 1868. He reminded the audience of how the town had come together to rebuild. And how just like then, Chardon will rise up from this tragedy. “Chardon rose from the ashes in a year because of the faith and resilience of its people. And you’re going to do it again,” claimed Kasich.

The atmosphere both in and out of the church was somber but supportive as students and members of the Chardon community shared hugs and comforted each other. Reverand Dan Redmond directed the service, leading the crowds in hymns, scripture verses and prayer. Chardon junior Joe Guerra added, “It was a neighborly, enlightening, great moment for the community.”