The Dallas area is grieving together today. A prayer vigil was held today, where city leaders, including Police Chief David Brown, spoke.

But after the prayer vigil was over, the most beautiful expression of love and appreciation occurred.

Police Chief David Brown received a long and loud round of a applause before he spoke at a midday, citywide prayer service here. Police work is a job where you seldom hear the words “Thank you,” he said.

The hundreds of residents who packed Thanks-Giving Square Park in downtown Dallas responded with a resounding, “THANK YOU!”

After the service, which featured remarks from faith and civic leaders, musical tributes and prayers, many of those in attendance stood in line to offer their personal thanks to men and women in uniform. Soon, everyone started hugging.

“It’s overwhelming,” said Senior Cpl. Monica Cordova. “We were overwhelmed with grief. Now we’re overwhelmed with gratitude.”

What a beautiful, touching moment that should lift all of our hearts in the midst of such terrible sorrow. May God continue to comfort the families of the fallen, and the Dallas community, in the days to come.