Churches say turn to God, not guns

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Local churches are trying to quell violence by bringing faith to the streets of Springfield.

On Thursday at Springfield City Hall, churches joined city officials and police in an effort to end the street violence that has recently plagued the city.

The Springfield 10 Point Coalition made a call to action.

"I think this effort against violence has to be a community effort. The churches really have the answers if we invoke god into the community," said Aaula Alexander, the Executive Director of Churches Springfield.

"For the citizens of Springfield to see that the faith community, public safety comm. and civic leaders are working to solve the problems with gangs," remarked Kateri Walsh, the President of the Springfield 10 Point Coalition

On November 22nd, the council of churches will be holding a special day of prayer to help end violence.