Arlington church prays for peace after violent week in America

After a week of violence, a pastor is calling for prayer.

Reverend Arlinda Burks gathered with close to two dozen people at Arlington United Methodist Church for prayer and moments of silence to remember all the victims.

"Silence is consent. Evil flourishes when good people do nothing," Burks said.

Burks said she decided to hold this prayer vigil to break the silence.

She said she couldn't get what happened in Dallas Thursday night out of her head.

"It was like being transported back to the '60s where I grew up and that was not a good time in America and we're not having a good time now," Burks said.

Trending on ActionNewsJax.com:

• Beachgoers rescue toddler buried alive in sand
• Dallas Police Chief: 3 in custody after 11 officers shot, 5 dead
• Burning mannequin at Florida Mall reported, turns out to be dead body, police say
• Oceanway woman using sign to fight crime 'relieved' after alleged drug dealer's arrest
• Report: Jaguars running back Denard Robinson 'asleep' behind wheel in crash

Videos circulating the internet of two African-American men shot by police in Louisiana and Minnesota have sparked protests across the country.

During what was supposed to be a peaceful protest in Dallas, five officers were killed and seven more were injured.

"No matter how you feel about the police shootings, that is not the response. Hate cannot kill hate. Only love can do that," Burks said.

Jane LaBelle said this week has left her in shock.

"I actually was appalled because I just don't think God intended it this way," LaBelle said.

Prayers of overcoming hate and accepting one another echoed throughout the church.

"It’s with prayer," Burks said, "that people can conquer hate."

“We can get through this. I believe that in all my heart, that we can do better because we are better,” said Burks.

Burks also encouraged people to speak up for victims of injustice.

Cox Media Group