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Thousands of mourners pay tribute to shooting victims at emotional vigil in Orlando

Jose Hernandez (right) and Bryan Lora (back right), who lost their friends Amanda Alvear and Mercedez Flores, are consoled during a vigil for family and friends outside the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, Fla. Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Orlando, Fla. — A vigil was held outside Orlando's Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts on Monday in honor of the victims who died in the nightclub mass shooting on Sunday.

One speaker said, "Hate, bigotry and intolerance are our common enemies."

>> PHOTOS: Vigil held for Pulse mass shooting victims and survivors

Thousands gathered holding signs and candles as the names of the victims were read aloud.

The owners of Pulse nightclub said, “We are not leaving. We are here to stay. We will be bigger and better than you can imagine.”

>> Read more about the Orlando nightclub shooting

This message was clear throughout the vigil and amid the songs and many speeches given: “Peace and love.”

More than eight hours after the vigil, candles were still burning at the venue.

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