Several local communities are planning memorial services to honor the victims of last week’s school shooting in Newtown, Conn.

Two of the events were held Wednesday night in Beech Bottom and Weirton.

Speaking at the event in Beech Bottom, West Virginia State Senator Jack Yost read the names of the victims aloud. Each name was followed by ringing a bell once.

Yost said after the event that it is important for all communities to come together and share courage and togetherness following tragedy.

At the event in Weirton, Mayor George Kondik said they were expecting a large crowed that ended up being twice as big as they anticipated.

The city organized the candlelight vigil with a lot of community support over the last few days.

Kondik says that the people of Weirton always support others in times of need.

 “Weirton has always been very unique,” Kondik said. “When it comes to hard times and tough times, we unite, we hold hands, we pray together. And tonight just shows exactly what the citizens of Weirton are all about.”

An event is planned in Moundsville at 12:00 noon Friday. Another service is planned for 7:00 p.m. in St. Clairsville on Friday in front of the county courthouse.