Over a hundred people gathered in downtown Truckee for a candlelight vigil on Sunday to remember the nine victims of an avalanche near Castle Peak
"The people were out there doing what they wanted to do and what they love to do," said Jon Tierney, a ski guide visiting from Maine.
Tierney adds "the mountains bring joy to people, and occasionally they bring sadness to people."
Among the victims are Michael Henry, who called Truckee home since 2019, and Andrew Alissandratos, who moved to North Lake Tahoe about a decade ago.
The town organized the vigil, and the Church of the Mountains hosted a reception down the street.
"That is what we're here for, right? to share the love of God, to be the love of God, and to connect people together," said Pastor Rebecca Irelan.
"It's a true honor to be able to be a part of the grief support network here in town, said Rabbi Lauren Ben-Shoshan.
Irelan said the Church of the Mountains is offering drop-in hours from noon to 2 p.m. from February 23 to 27 if you need support. You can also call the church's office to schedule an appointment.
The pastor said community support like this will help the community process their grief.
"Grief is universal. It crosses all traditions and cultures, and it is one thing that binds us together," Irelan said.
"Please take advantage of the robust help offerings that we have. we don't want anybody to be in crisis," Ben-Shoshan said.
Grief can send some people into isolation. Ben-Shoshan says it needs to be channeled toward connection instead.
"If grief is love that we're not quite sure where to go, it's important to be able to use that love to reach out to one another and really engage in conversation and mutual support," she said.
There's one thing Irelan wants the Truckee community to remember.
"You are not alone. God is with us," she said.
In addition to its drop-in hours, the Church of the Mountains will be holding an interfaith service starting at 5:30 p.m. Monday night for the community to come together and remember the victims.
Alin Beane spoke to folks who attended the vigil in Truckee Sunday
