Charleston holds prayer, remembrance ceremony for S.C. COVID-19 victims

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg proclaimed Thursday as a day or prayer and remembrance to pay tribute to the South Carolinians who have died from COVID-19.

“We’re gathered here at St Michael’s church to lament the loss of more than 137,000 American lives and nearly, 1000 right here in the state of South Carolina lost to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Tecklenburg said.

Tecklenburg reminded everyone that the city remains under a state of emergency and urged people to do their part in flattening the curve with the “three Ws:” Wear, Watch and Wash.

“Wear your mask, watch your distance and wash your hands,” he said. “We all need to do this together.”

The ceremony includes clergy members and began at 12:15 p.m. at St. Michael’s Church at the corner of Meeting and Broad Streets.

The current death toll in South Carolina stands at 984 as of Wednesday afternoon, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.

The invited clergy are the Rev. Richard Grimball of St. Michael’s Church, the Rev. Dr. Annette Brewer of Wallingford Presbyterian Church, Vicar Calhoun Walpole of Grace Church Cathedral and the Rev. Anthony Thompson of Holy Trinity Reformed Episcopal.

The flag atop Charleston City Hall will fly at half-staff to honor the victims, , city spokesman Jack O’Toole said.

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