Local law enforcement chaplains and a group of police spouses will host a “Thin Blue Prayer Line” on the steps of Columbus City Hall on Friday. Columbus Police Department Spokesman Lt. Matt Harris says the event is being held in light of recent law enforcement deaths, including Howard County Deputy Sheriff Carl Koontz, who was killed on March 20th.

“We are excited about having the community come together to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to pray for the well- being for everyone in public safety,” said Harris. He went on to say that the event will feature remarks by local clergy and spouses of law-enforcement officers.

Patrick Galligar, director of Pastoral Care at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Columbus, says that “there are so many of these type of events in the news that we can become numb to them.” He went on to say that, “this prayer event can be a place where we stand and acknowledge we are better together, and none of us is ever alone.” Galligar also says that the event is not only to grieve and comfort those who have lost a loved one, but to pray for God’s protection for those who rush in to danger to protect others.

Harris says that the end of the ceremony, which begins at 11:30 a.m. and is expected to last about 15 minutes, everyone will be encouraged to join hands to make a prayer line. He adds that refreshments will be served after the event. You are encouraged to take part.