Texas church where 26 were shot dead reopens as chilling all-white memorial

Memorial chairs for the victims are in the exact place they were sat before the shooting
AP
Tom Powell14 November 2017

The small Texas church where Devin Kelley massacred 26 people has been painted pure white and reopened as a poignant tribute to the victims.

The First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs opened its doors again on Sunday, exactly one week after the worst mass shooting in Texas’ history.

Windows and tiles which were damaged by bullets have been replaced and the floor, walls and ceiling have been painted bright white.

The pews and carpets have been stripped out, with just 26 white chairs remaining.

The church has been stripped out and painted white
AP

Each chair is adorned with a rose and a gold inscription of a victim’s name, including the unborn baby of a woman who was shot.

Each of the 26 chairs has a rose and a victim's name in gold
AP

The chairs have been placed in the exact spot where the victims were sitting during the Sunday service.

Devin Kelley is suspected of killing 26 people in the shooting

Church members have begun discussions as to whether the building should be demolished, or a new structure built nearby.

A sermon was held outdoors under a white tent on Sunday as families of the victims were invited to step foot into the church.

“I haven't seen this done in other catastrophes,” Pastor Frank Pomeroy said.

“But I want the world to know that that building will be open so that everyone who walks in there will know that the people who died lived for their lord and saviour.”

Following the shooting, ex-airman Kelley was found dead in his car after being chased from the church by armed bystanders. Police said he died from what appeared to be a self-inflicted wound.

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