Inside the Mount Sinai United Christian Church on Staten Island just blocks from where Eric Garner was killed in a confrontation with police, clergy and elected officials from across the city joined for a prayer vigil with a simple message: all lives matter.
With songs of hope and messages of faith, the prayer service honored Eric Garner and offered a resounding message of unity.
Mayor Bill de Blasio said he hoped that as the anniversary of Garner's death approaches his administration will be able to take steps toward repairing tender relations between community and police.
Timothy Cardinal Dolan called on a higher power to heal divisions.
That challenges remain is clear. Garner's family was joined by Rev. Al Sharpton at the service. Earlier, the family said the $5.9 million wrongful death lawsuit settlement with the city did not provide justice.
Though the family lit candles and stood side by side with officers during the vigil, afterward Garner's widow was asked about unity. She replied that she plans to stay in her home and have no contact with police.