BORDER residents yesterday joined those around the country in a day of mourning for those killed when the Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 shot down over Ukraine a fortnight ago.
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The ecumenical service at St Matthew’s Church in Albury was told those gathered did so in a spirit of hope and positivity, while also remembering the 298 people who died with the lighting of candles and the laying of wreaths.
In Melbourne, the 38 Australian citizens and residents killed on July 17 were remembered by Prime Minister Tony Abbott as “the best of modern-day Australia”, including doctors, teachers, volunteers, business innovators and pillars of local communities.
Mr Abbott urged all Australians to support the bereaved as the nation sought justice for the dead and for their families.
The theme of solidarity with the bereaved was evident at both the national and Border services, with Father Peter Macleod-Miller urging those at the Albury service to consider the strength of compassion and hope.
The Catholic Archbishop of Melb-ourne Denis Hart urged Australians to stand in solidarity with those suffering “unimaginable loss”.
That support will be vital both until and after their lost loved ones are home.