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Service of gratitude held for Jayme Closs

The 13-year-old's home church held a "celebration of praise and gratitude" on Sunday, three months after it held her parents' funeral.

CAMERON, Wis. — Inside St. Peter Catholic Church in Cameron Wis., where three months ago people gathered for the funeral of Jim and Denise Closs, people gathered now for a service of gratitude.

"I think it's really important to gather, because this is a moment to celebrate," said musician Luke Spehar, who performed at the service.

They celebrated the safe homecoming of parishioner Jayme Closs, while continuing to mourn the loss of her parents.

Two of Jayme's friends shared words they use to describe her after she escaped captivity.

"Kind and caring, quiet, talented, but we'd also say strong, courageous, inspiring and loved so much," the girls said.

RELATED: Barron community shocked, relieved Jayme Closs is alive

Jayme's cousin said a tearful prayer for the 13-year-old's friends.

"Help them in these coming days as Jayme returns to their lives," she said.

Musicans Luke Spehar and Aly Aleigha were honored to take part.

"It really did hit home in a strong way for me," Aleigha said.

Father John Gerritts says it was difficult to decide on a message.

"They have one of the greatest miracle stories to be shared. What could anyone possibly add to that?" Gerritts said.

So he decided to let the people of Barron County, in the home church of Jayme Closs' family, to know how the rest of the world is seeing them: a community that stuck together, never blamed each other and most importantly never lost hope.

"It's important to do this after everything people have been through, because we want to make sure we remember that God indeed did answer our prayers," Gerritts said.

Jayme's aunt Jennifer Smith, who is now her caregiver, is also a member of St. Peter. So Jayme will be able to continue going to church there.

More from KARE 11:

Complaint: Patterson chose Jayme Closs at random after seeing her get on bus

A closer look at the neighborhood where Jayme Closs was found

LISTEN: Woman recounts moments after Jayme Closs was found

 

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