COLUMBUS (WCMH) — Giving a face to Columbus’ tragedies; Monday night local mothers of murdered children met to grieve together for the first meeting of the Healing Circle.

Through prayer and sharing their stories the mothers were hoping to help mend their broken hearts.

“It’s like a wound that will never heal and it’s a pain that never goes away,” said Sharon Smith whose son was shot and killed outside of a Columbus gas station in September.

“I just feel no one understands what it’s like to lose a child,” she said.

The first meeting of the Healing Circle brought together women who have all lost children.

“My son was murdered. He was shot down,” said Linda Stubbs whose son William Stubbs was killed in 2013.

Also among the crowd was Tyre King’s mother. 13 year old King was shot and killed by Columbus Police after officers said he pulled a gun from his waistband. That weapon was later determined to be a BB gun.

Healing Circle organizer Jodi Howell said she hoped the women find peace knowing they’re not alone.

“We have to come together as a community and start the healing process,” said Howell.

Not always easy.

“You just really never prepare yourself for that,” said Smith.

To learn more about the Healing Circle visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/545806455609657/