Community members are praying for peace after two deadly shootings in Chicago near 31st Street Beach just days apart.

CHICAGO (WLS) — Community members gathered Saturday to pray for an end to the violence that has shattered the serenity of Chicago's 31st Street Beach.

“We're united. We're not just focused on the violence and trauma in Chicago, but we're working together to try to find what kind of solutions we can come up with,” said Chris Harris, pastor of Bright Star Church.

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A coalition of faith leaders, local business owners, community members, aldermen and Pier 31 patrons gathered at the waterfront bar and hangout to show solidarity.

“Absolutely no concerns about coming to 31st Street Beach. I've been coming to Pier 31 since its inception,” said owner Michelle Wimberley.

The vigil comes after two fatal shootings in just a few days last week.

Nikki Hayes said she has seen business decline at the bar she has owned for 13 years following the violent incidents.

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“When something happens two days apart, it just comes to mind, and I was just wondering, 'What's going on. What do we need? What can we do differently?'” Hayes said.

In the early morning hours of last Friday, two people were shot and killed near 31st Street Beach.

The previous Wednesday, a 22-year-old woman was killed and another woman was injured after someone opened fire in the same area.

Alderman Lamont Robinson, who represents the 4th Ward, proposed that the Chicago Park District close the beach two hours earlier, at 9 p.m.

“We have to make sure that we demand that we get the resources that we have so that everyone can enjoy this beautiful beach that we have,” Robinson said.

It is possible that violence interrupters will also be stationed on the beach to defuse any incidents.

Those who believe in the power of prayer say they are confident that positive change will come. In the meantime, many others simply hope the violence will end.