A strong show of solidarity by Southeast Texans was displayed on Friday as a prayer vigil was held for Nederland Police Officers in front of their Department on Boston Ave. Needless to say, in light of the terrible shooting in Dallas, the local vigil was also conducted in honor of all police officers across the country, regardless of precinct.

The event was organized by Deanna Turner and introduced by Nederland Chief of Police, Darrell Bush, who had a summary statement regarding the tragic happenings in Dallas.

“When someone assaults our police officers, it’s more than just an assault on them—it’s an assault on our society,” Bush said.

It was that kind of accord that was frequently touched upon during the vigil—an almost tangible up-swelling of communal strength and spiritual guidance among the congregates that ran through the event.

Stephen Brentlinger, minister at First Baptist Church Nederland, echoed the sentiment: “As soon as the event had happened, man, I wish I was with them, for the brothers who needed me.”

Brentlinger spoke from more than just a sense of spiritual attunement; though, as he had also been a police officer for the city of Port Neches and was therefore in a unique position to gauge the Dallas events as both a pastor and former law enforcement officer.

“How do we react to this?” Brentlinger asked of the public, carefully threading the line between emotion and righteousness. “What we have to do tonight is honor the brave men and women who have fallen… to pray for them… to ask for their protection.”

Brentlinger urged the gathering to not respond with anger or bitterness in their hearts over a tragedy that could easily engender such, but rather with love and understanding for both victims and those left behind.

“The only hope we have is to repent and run to the feet of Jesus Christ,” Brentlinger said. “God’s grace knows no race, no gender… it accomplishes all.”

Jordan Rogers, pastor for Hillcrest Baptist Church in Nederland, had a similar piece of advice for the fold: “Do not let your heart grow cold.” And then he went on to elaborate upon the transformative power of love and God within the community.

It was that spirit of community, faith, and strength, of course that extended to the true recipients of the evening—the police officers.

“Nederland has always backed its police department to the hilt,” Bush said of the city’s support for its officers in uniform. “They bring us food, cakes, drinks… The community has been very supportive. It touches your heart.”

That solid showing of support was something not overlooked by any officer on the scene.

“It was a stronger display [of support] than I’ve ever experienced,” said Deputy Caleb Mitchell of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. “It’s a chance to show people are on our side, our team. It’s really an uplifting feeling for me.”

The prayer vigil took place at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Nederland Police Department, and was well attended by several members of the community.