Community Shaken by Pastor's Murder Remains Strong in Faith

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

ANADARKO, Oklahoma -- While investigators work tirelessly to find the killer of Anadarko Pastor Carol Daniels, the community is working to see the light in a time of darkness.

Wednesday started with concern as pastors met with the District Attorney who cautioned them all to be vigilant and suggested they review security plans. But for many congregations, the day ended in a renewed spirit as people came together to worship for the first time since Sunday.

"Lord, as we join our hearts together tonight we begin to pray for strength, for encouragement, for courage for faith to arise," said Pastor Ted Mercer of Grace Christian Fellowship, as he prayed over the church congregation.

Moving on with prayer is what Mercer and the Grace Christian Fellowship is focusing on.

At the Greater First Baptist Church, there is an even greater need for healing. It's one of the churches Daniels visited frequently aside from her own.

"She always had encouraging words for me personally for some things I personally went through," said Kym Pendarvis, who is organizing a vigil to honor Daniels. "A lot of us had become close with Pastor Daniels."

The Greater First Baptist Church is hosting a community vigil on Friday in an effort to honor Daniels and to help with the healing process.

"So many people have called to be concerned and wanted to share thier love and respect to her and the family," Pendarvis said.

So while a few blocks away, the memorial at the front step of Pastor Daniels' church sits as a reminder of the unthinkable happening, churches in the community are keeping strong in their faith, which many said was the very definition of 61-year-old Pastor Carol Daniels.

"She was just a sweet angelic woman of Christ," Pendarvis said.

The vigil to honor Pastor Daniels will be Friday at 7 p.m. at the Greater First Baptist Church of Anadarko, 502 E Washington. The public is welcome to attend.

More on News9.com:
- Investigation Continues into Anadarko Pastor's Death
- DA Says Anadarko Church Murder Most Shocking Case of Career
- DA Warns Oklahoma Clergy After Anadarko Pastor Killing