Upcoming Vigils & Events

Special Vigil for Healing in memory of Jacquetta Thomas, Raleigh, NC.

When: September 19, 2010. Time to be anounced
Where: To be announced

Jacquetta's body was found in a cul-de-sac at the end of Blount Street in East Raleigh in September of 1991. She had been beaten to death with a blunt object. She had young children at the time of her death.

Within twenty-four hours the police had arrested Gregory F. Taylor and Johnny Beck for Jacquetta’s murder. Two years later Taylor was convicted of the crime and was sentenced to life in prison.

In 2010, nearly 17 years later, Taylor was exonerated for Jacquetta’s murder by a panel of three superior court judges. The judges found, by clear and convincing evidence, that Taylor was innocent of the charges. Gregory Taylor spent 17 years in jail for a crime he did not commit and is now living with family in the Triad area.

Jacquetta Thomas’ murder remains unsolved. Her family has requested the Vigil as a healing gesture for their family as well as for Gregory Taylor and his loved ones.

Shield of Hope Family Picnic

When: Saturday evening, October 16, 2010
Where: Shelter at Bolton Park, Bolton Street, Winston-Salem

Catered BBQ and fixins, raffle, balloon launch. All who have lost a loved one to violence are welcome. Check back for more information as the date approaches.

Vigil for Healing in memory of Cirilo Avila

When: To be announced
Where: To be announced

Cirilo Avila, 35, was murdered Dec 16, 2009. He was fatally shot during a robbery attempt while selling snacks for a grocery store from a cart at an apartment complex in WInston-Salem. Police found Avilo's body in the back of his truck.