Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley’s Survivor vigil
Candles line the path. Purple ribbons pinned to shirts. Tables are set, places are set with forks, plates, knives, napkins, and candles. And while the table might look like a regular dinner, these table settings won’t be used. The individuals they're set for are no longer with us, but rather being honored and remembered. Hundreds of people gather to remember those who lost their lives to domestic violence and intimate partner abuse. The event honors their lives, and honors those who are still here and standing, the survivors.
Turning Point hosted their annual survivor vigil on October 17th at First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem. Volunteers, community members, and survivors all joined together to remember the lives lost. “Walking in, I was taken aback. I knew the event would spark some emotional reactions, but I didn’t imagine that just walking in I would feel how I did. The love and support was radiating from the doors. Volunteers greeted me, we shared smiles, and went our separate ways. And while I didn’t know anyone there, I felt safe. I could tell right from the moment I stepped foot in the door that this would be something to remember.” Amanda, Junior