VOA常速英语:California Muslims Share Grief, Healing with Neighbors

Residents in California are remembering the victims of last week's terrorist shootings in San Bernardino, which claimed the lives of 14 people and left more than 20 injured.

Muslims and their Christian and Jewish neighbors gathered at a mosque to pray for the victims and their families.

“Tonight is about healing. Tonight is about remembering the people who died, who have left families," said Fauzia Rivi, a mosque member.

U.S.-born Syed Rizwan Farook and his Pakistani wife, Tashfeen Malik, carried out the mass shooting at a gathering of local government workers last Wednesday killing 14 people and wounding 21 others. The shooting shook this part of southern California.

“It's a shock for the whole country. There is no reason for any killing. There is no reason for any terrorism in the world. You know, we stand against terrorism as united," said Azmi Hasan, another mosque member.

Corona is a 30-minute drive from San Bernardino, but people here experienced the same shock.

“We're close enough that it was almost like feeling like it's in your neighbor's back yard," said Ali Haxton, also a mosque member.

Those who crowded the mosque shared a meal afterward.

The Rev. John Saville, an Episcopal priest who spoke to those gathered, said, “Here tonight, I think this is the way we respond after horrible things. We come together, pray together, listen and learn and share a meal together. This is the best way to respond.”

People also shared concerns for their security, and worried about a backlash against Muslims. They say they are all part of one community, and are hurting and healing together.