New Yorkers come together in interfaith vigil, stand in solidarity with Paris

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Candles illuminated the faces of a community that stands in solidarity with France. Children joined their parents as prayers at an interfaith vigil echoed through Carroll Park in Brooklyn.

"We were here 9/11, and the whole world stood up with us after that happened, and it meant so much to us, so we wanted to say that to our friends and family in Paris," says Dale Bryk, "We just wanted to give them a collective hug."

"Very sad news and we pray for them. I have a big mosque, we pray every day, five times a day, for all people, for everybody," says Abdul Azizbutt.

When the vigil ended, a march began. A sea of lights flooded the street, and the group gathered behind a collection of flags carried with pride.



"We will not live in fear, and that is the most important message that can resonate out of Brooklyn, in this French community, and the entire community," says Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

Marie Kerambrum, who was born in France, marched with her son by her side.

"It's a hard time to learn for children, because life is not fair," she said.

There were quiet moments of reflection, and at times song. When the group arrived at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church, they prayed for the French people in the country's darkest hour.

"We need to work together with the Imam, with the Catholic people, with the Jewish people, and show we are not afraid," says Geangecques Bernat.

'We are not afraid' was the sentiment that was heard over and over again in Brooklyn on Sunday night. The group hopes the world is listening.

On Saturday, the famed arch at Washington Square Park was lit up in the color of the French flag to honor the victims.



The Empire State Building also went dark in solidarity with the Eiffel Tower, but on Sunday resumed illumination.