Groups hold peace events across Chicago Saturday

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Churches and groups across the Chicago area held events as part of a one-hour call for peace Saturday as a response to the rising violence in the city.

The events took place from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday at dozens locations across the area, including New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, St. Sabina and North Park University.

The groups are calling for, "Unity and solidarity throughout Chicago to combat violence and its causes holistically; Increased media and public attention to the many local, often overlooked, initiatives that address violence and its causes; and Increased resources for the neighborhoods and communities most impacted by violence."

Leaders that took part include Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina; Dr. Michael Emerson of North Park University, Rami Nashashibi of the Inner City Muslim Action Network and many more. To see a map of participating, click here. For more information on the events, visit www.chicagopeace.net.