Hastings gathers to spread message of hope

Hastings High School’s auditorium was packed Sunday night as people gathered to hear and share a message of hope and faith.

“Hope is Here” was held in the wake of recent tragedies in Hastings. The event featured The Overflow Band playing praise and worship songs and video messages from three Hastings families. Jeff, Lynn and Mackenzie Lucas spoke in the video about their thoughts following the loss of their son and brother, Mitchell Lucas, who died by suicide in late October. Will Connell, the brother of Spencer Connell, also spoke in the video. Spencer died by suicide just six days after Mitchell Lucas. Also featured in the video was Naomi Latt, a 2012 HHS graduate who was recently diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare form of cancer.

All the messages were similar, filled with words of hope and faith and encouragement for those dealing with their own struggles.

Those attending the event were given a program with a list of local resources for those seeking help. Resources covered a wide range of services, from mental health crisis help and suicide prevention to Christian counseling and support groups to help with unplanned pregnancy and substance abuse.

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