“When all the attention has gone, who’s left behind? Us. We are going to rise from this.”
That was one community leader’s message to a crowd who had gathered for the service in Croydon town centre in memory of Elianne Andam.
The 15-year-old was stabbed to death on Wednesday morning as she stepped off a bus on her way to school.
Her family was surrounded by hundreds of people, mainly strangers, to pray for their daughter.
The crowd didn’t want them to stand alone. One by one, pastors and reverends from across London stepped up to the microphone to acknowledge the crowd and speak about grief and healing.
It felt resolute, and powerful.
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“We stand together, it’s us united, we are with you,” one faith leader chanted. The crowd cheered and clapped in agreement.
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For a family that has had their world ripped apart, the crowd wanted them to feel their presence.
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A black frame with Elianne’s photograph stood next to the microphone.
Elianne’s family wore black clothing and stood in line behind the speakers. They clutched each other’s hands and listened to the words from their community.
Among the speakers was their pastor, Mark Rossell, who told the crowd that Elianne had been an avid member of his church community.
She’d frequently attended their Sunday school sessions and had grown up within the church walls, so her death has shaken those she knew so well.
He remembered a girl full of joy and hope for the future.
“It broke our hearts. Elianne was a huge part of New Life, it’s personal. This really, really hurts.
“She had her whole life ahead of her, she was always laughing and really loved being part of this community. She had big dreams and was so optimistic about her goals.”
Mr Rossell told Sky News everyone is rallying around Elianne’s family.
“Elianne’s family were in church this morning, praying during this tragedy,” he added.
“It’s our community that will build them back up and give them every ounce of support they need.”
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After the service, a few people laid flowers at the scene down the road.
As the bouquets continued to multiply, someone arranged them, with balloons, teddy bears and candles around them to frame the memorial.
People queued to sign a book of condolence on a table next to it.
It’s evident no one wanted Elianne’s family to feel alone.
Her family of faith seemed to use this Sunday – traditionally a day of rest – to try and find peace in this horror.
