News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Pulse-nightclub-anniversary-2017-main_article_image.jpg
Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP, Pool
World News

Church bells ring on anniversary of worst US mass shooting

They chimed 49 times in the Florida city on Monday, once for each of the victims who died in an attack on the city's Pulse nightclub

Speaking to survivors and victims' families during a private service to mark the occasion, the Florida city's mayor Buddy Dyer said: "I realise that gathering here in this place, at this hour, is beyond difficult.

"But I also know that the strength you've shown over the past year will carry you through today and in the future."

Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP, Pool

Omar Mateen, the man behind the attack on 12th June 2016, had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group. He was later killed during a three hour standoff with police.

Named of each of victims were read out outside the gay nightclub, while hundreds of people left flowers, drawings and cards at a nearby memorial. Governor Rick Scott ordered that US flags in the state be flown at half-mast.

Noor Salman, the wife of Omar Mateen, faces charges in a federal court of aiding and abetting and obstruction. She has pleaded not guilty to being involved in the shooting.

Monday's services marked the culmination of several days of days marking the attack. The owner of the Pulse nightclub, Barbara Poma, is said to be planning to erect a memorial on the site.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate