A wave of crime has many residents in the city of Reading turning to their faith for help and answers.

Dozens showed up to the Holy Trinity Church of God in the 100 block of West Buttonwood Street in Reading, for a Stop The Violence prayer night.

Many took time to remember Anthony Omar Gonzalez, 22.

He was found dead in an alley last Saturday near Woodward Street. While Gonzalez lay dying, Reading Police said no one called 911.

Pastor Gerald F. Prentice, Jr., organizer of the prayer night, indicated it will be hard to forget the death of Omar Gonzalez.

"Right then my heart was broke," said pastor Prentice. "I said I have to do something."

With their hands raised, they prayed for every playground and every street corner. They also prayed for the many stores throughout the city that have recently been held up at gun point. Many say they will never forget the images of men storming into stores with their guns drawn.

After prayer, they took their message to the streets. And singing the hymn, "I Know It Was the Blood," they headed for the 300 block of Pear Street.

Within the past month this very block has been rocked by a drug bust, a fire, and a double homicide.

They stopped and prayed at the site where the two men were gunned down, and then approached several men standing on the corner and offered prayer.

"I'm frustrated. I'm tired of it. There needs to be a change made in the city of Reading, because it's getting terrible," said Pastor Apostle Edna Lewis.

The worshippers said their approach works.

Pastor Prentice said it worked for him. When worshippers approached him and offered him a new life, he said took the opportunity.

"I was involved in drugs. I was involved in whole bunch of other things, you know, but they came out, they walked the streets. Soon one day I just said I'm tired of being sick and tired, and changed my life," said Prentice.

Another pray walk is scheduled for Friday, February 17 at the Mt. Zion Church of God and Christ, located at 416 S. 6th Street. Everyone is welcome. For more information you can call: (610) 763-0601.