Just hours before Roy Lee Ward was executed by lethal injection in Michigan City, a group of about 30 people, dressed in coats and some holding flashlights, prayed for an end to the death penalty.

Gary Diocese Bishop Robert McClory and Rev. Richard Holy, director of pro-life activities, led the Thursday night vigil at the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City. The diocese began holding vigils when Indiana resumed executions by lethal injection in December.

“We resumed the prayer vigils to draw attention, first and foremost, to the fact that this is happening again in our state, and we’re executing death row inmates,” Holy said. “What we’re trying to do is not deny what they’ve done and the horrific things they’ve done … but what we’re trying to point out is that his life still has value.

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