As Dylann Roof was arraigned in Charleston today, community members began to sing in support of the families inside speaking to the judge, and MSNBC reporter Thomas Roberts was so moved he could hardly report it.
This was happening inside the courtroom:
Relatives of some of the people gunned down at a historic black church in Charleston faced the accused gunman in an emotionally wrenching court hearing Friday — and told him they forgive him.
"I would just like him to know that ... I forgive you, my family forgives you," Anthony Thompson said during a bond hearing for the suspect, Dylann Roof. Myra Thompson, 59, was one of nine people killed in the horrific attack at Emanuel African Episcopal Church on Wednesday.
"We would like you to take this opportunity to repent. Repent. Confess. Give your life to the one who matters the most: Christ. So that he can change it," Anthony Thompson told the accused gunman as he appeared via video link at jail.
While outside, in the streets, community members gathered together and began to sing. The scene was altogether too much for Roberts, who was visibly moved and at times unable to continue with his report.
