The Purple Rose of Texas: A Sanctuary of Healing and Forgiveness.



A Powerful Ecumenical Worship Service for Gun Violence Awareness at New Mount Rose of Fort Worth, The Purple Rose of Texas.


There was A Spirit in the Sanctuary of Healing and Rebuilding Lives. 



On Thursday, February 13, 2025, faith leaders, families, and community members gathered at New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church, The Purple Rose of Texas for a moving ecumenical worship service to honor the 286 lives lost to gun violence in Tarrant County in 2023. It was a sacred time of remembrance, healing, and renewed commitment to action.



A Sacred Gathering of Faith and Hope


The sanctuary was filled with people from different backgrounds and denominations, united in grief, faith, and determination. The presence of the Holy Spirit was undeniable as powerful prayers, songs of hope, and words of encouragement were shared.



Before the Vidas Robadas (Stolen Lives) Tee Shirt Memorial traveled to Austin for a statewide remembrance, the community had the chance to witness and reflect on the heartbreaking loss that gun violence had inflicted on Tarrant County. The display of 286 tee shirts, 105 for victims of gun homicide and unintentional shootings, and 181 for those lost to gun suicide, stood as a solemn yet urgent call for change.



The Message: “Release the Grief: Overcoming the Trauma of Gun Violence.”


Scripture: Luke 22:42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”


The message centered on three key steps to healing:

1. Facing It! Acknowledging the deep pain of loss and the reality of grief.

2. Seeking It! Turning to God, community, and available resources for support.

3. Releasing It! Letting go of pain and surrendering to God’s healing power.



As the names of the victims were solemnly read, a wave of collective mourning filled the church. Tears flowed, hands clasped in unity, and hearts were lifted in prayer. Survivors and families shared their personal stories, reminding everyone that behind each name was a beloved son, daughter, mother, or father taken too soon.



A Community United in Action


Beyond the grief, there was also a strong sense of purpose. The gathering served as a launchpad for continued advocacy, as many committed to joining the statewide memorial and advocacy day in Austin on February 27. The community stood firm in calling for common-sense legislation to:



Strengthen secure storage laws to prevent gun suicides (HB 528).


Raise the minimum age to purchase semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21 (HB 1556).


Oppose laws that expand firearms in schools and weaken safety regulations.



A Lasting Impact


The service was a deeply moving and spiritually enriching experience that strengthened bonds within the community. Faith leaders from across Tarrant County reaffirmed their commitment to working together to reduce gun violence and support affected families.



At The Purple Rose of Texas, the message was clear: healing is possible, action is necessary, and faith will guide the way.


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