The Temple Gate Seventh-Day Adventist Church will host their inaugural community prayer vigil Friday, Nov. 15 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for those affected by violence.

Titled the “Saving our Streets: Candlelight Vigil for Selma’s Youth,” the vigil will be held at Temple Gate SDA Church on 1601 Franklin Street.

“We want to show recognition to the violence in the area,” Donella Jackson, the Youth Ministries leader at Temple Gate SDA Church, said. “It’s to recognize those who have lost their lives. ”

Jackson said the growing rate of violence in Selma has motivated her to plan this event.

“We hear about someone being killed day after day,” she said. “I am scared to do anything at night.”

She said the vigil allows the community to come together and show a united front.

“We want them to know that you don’t have to pull out a gun and want to kill,” she said. “We want to show that we are here for our young people. We want to show the families what we are still here.”

Jackson, a Selma resident, said she is frustrated with the negative perception that Selma has gained over the years. She said people automatically overlook the positive aspects associated with Selma.

“When they think of Selma, they are not thinking about rich history,” she said. “They think it’s always negative.”

Justin Davis, the assistance youth leader of Temple Fate SDA Church said prayer is a necessity.

“The key to the solution of our problems is being exposed to prayer,” Davis said.

He said the violence has the potential to hinder businesses from coming to Selma.

“People don’t want to come into a community that is violent,” Davis said. “The safer the community, the better it is for the entire community.”

Jackson said they want the support of Selma city leaders and government to help make this prayer vigil a true success.

“I don’t like hearing negative things about my city,” she said. “I love my city.“