Local religious leaders host vigils for Charleston shooting victims

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Religious leaders in Chicago are offering their condolences to the victims of a shooting that killed nine people at a historic black church in Charleston, S.C.

"We ask, Lord, that you will heal the land," said Rev. Paul Jakes.

Thursday's vigil was at the Greater Institutional African Methodist Episcopal Church in the city's South Side. Among the attendees was AME church elder Rev. Dr. Albert Tyson III, who knew Emanuel AME Church Pastor and State Sen. Clementa Pinckney - a victim in the attack.

"He was compassionate and caring, he loved the people," Tyson said.

Among the words of condolences and forgiveness, there were calls for justice. Authorities describe the assault by alleged gunman Dylann Roof - who is white - as a hate crime.

PHOTOS: Charleston church shooting

"This is an act of terrorism and we must respond to this terrorism as we would if it were on foreign shores," said Rev. Janette Wilson.

Some simply prayed for change, blaming gun laws in part for the tragedy.

But Pastor Walter Johnson, who hosted the meeting, also acknowledged new concerns about safety at his South Side church.

"For a little while, until I feel more comfortable, I'll probably be praying with my eyes open," Johnson said.

Church-goer Lucille Latko attended Thursday's vigil and wonders now what Sunday service will be like.

"I just ask God to cover this church, cover this house and cover our people," Latko said.