Local and state elected officials, leaders from the faith community and a several city residents gathered outside City Hall last week for a ceremony and candlelight vigil to remember the lives lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The City Council last month approved a resolution declaring the first Monday in March as “COVID-19 Memorial Day” in the city. It notes that more than 130 Cranston residents have died as a result of the pandemic, among the more than 550,000 Americans who have lost their lives due to the coronavirus.

Ward 2 City Councilwoman Aniece Germain served as the master of ceremonies for the roughly 30-minute ceremony, which included remarks for U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, General Treasurer Seth Magaziner and Mayor Ken Hopkins.

Other council members in attendance included Council President Chris Paplauskas, Council Vice President Ed Brady, citywide councilwomen Jessica Marino and Nicole Renzulli, Ward 1 Councilwoman Lammis Vargas, Ward 3 Councilman John Donegan and Ward 6 Councilman Matthew Reilly.

The Rev. Grace Swinski, Pastor Harry Rhau and the Rev. Santiago Rodriguez delivered prayers and remarks.

“The whole community really is in pain … We need to really live in solidarity, to open our eyes, to go and support anybody that is in need,” Rodriguez said.

Mike Rollins played the national anthem and “Amazing Grace” on saxophone, while Carine Paul sang “Amazing Grace” at the conclusion of the event.

(Herald photos)