MANCHESTER, Mich. – In many ways, Manchester is a community rooted in faith.
For the past five-and-a-half years, they never lost hope that Paul Whelan would be released. Two weeks ago, their prayers were answered.
Read: Timeline of Michigan man’s 5 years in a Russian prison
Residents gathered at the gazebo in Wurster Park Wednesday morning (Aug. 15) to give thanks.
“This is a reaffirmation of the tenant of what faith is,” Manchester resident Charlotte Major said.
In Manchester, they believe in being good neighbors.
Two of their neighbors, Whelan’s parents, Ed and Rosemary, needed their support.
And they still do.
Ed and Rosemary are currently with Paul in San Antonio as he recovers from his imprisonment, neighbors said.
“Because his parents are so near and dear to us, having Paul in prison was like having one of our own family members there,” Manchester Mayor Pat Vailliencourt said.
The Manchester Ministerial Association organized the community worship. It included prayer and song.
“We have put up yellow ribbons, we have prayed, we have supported the family that lives here, and we’ve sent cards to Paul while he was in prison. And at this moment, we want to come together as a community and say we are thankful something wonderful happened.” Manchester United Methodist Church Reverend Susan Hitts said.
Organizers collected yellow ribbons to be given to a fabric artist who will turn them into a gift for the Whelan family. The ribbons had been tied around lampposts and trees to keep Whelan’s plight top of mind in the community.
Some yellow ribbons remain in place around town.
Residents have also made welcome home cards for Whelan to be delivered to him at a later date.
“What happens next is whatever the family needs. I think that we continue to love. I know that there’s a real feeling that we’d like to celebrate if and when Paul is ready,” Hitts said.
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