Churchgoers honor 29 dead miners _ and profession

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP

By VICKI SMITH

PETTUS, W.Va. (AP) -- A pair of tall black boots and a lunch pail sat near the altar Sunday at the New Life Assembly church - a memorial to the 29 men killed in the worst U.S. mining disaster since 1970 and a thank-you to those who make their living inside the mountains.

This day, the first Sunday since last Monday's explosion killed 28 workers and a contractor at Massey Energy Co.'s Upper Big Branch mine in Montcoal, was for many a time to honor the profession. Tears of mourning fell, and arms swayed in worship among the 50 people gathered at the church.

Pastor Gary Williams, who has worked at Massey Energy mines for 18 years, knew many of the victims. On his way to church Sunday morning, he heard Ricky Workman's name among them for the first time.

"I know his child. I know his wife. He's a part of my family. He's a part of my life," Williams said, tears falling. "Over time, our hearts and the emptiness that we have inside will fade away, but I don't never want to forget what happened April 5, 2010."


Read more: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_MINE_EXPLOSION?SITE=NCJAC&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

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FULL story and video at link.



Pastor Gary Williams, center in the shirt and tie, prays with members of his congregation at the New Life Assembly church in Pettus, W.Va., Sunday, April 11, 2010 during a Sunday worship service held to mourn and commemorate the 29 miners who were killed in an explosion at Massey Energy Co.'s Upper Big Branch mine. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

[Skittles]

1. kicking for the miners

:cry:

[alphafemale]

2. Maybe they will be welcomed to the afterlife by these 29

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgI8bta-7aw