‘Give Your Life to Jesus,’ Pleads Grieving Mom After the Murder of Laken Riley

Loved Ones Gathered To Celebrate the Life of Laken Riley

A service was held on Friday, March 1, at Woodstock City Church in Woodstock, Georgia, to honor the life of Laken Riley. In a recent Facebook post, Phillips continued to extend her appreciation to loved ones and to request continued prayer as she grieves.

“Thank you to everyone that attended my precious Laken Hope Riley’s celebration of life on Friday,” Phillips said, going on to share her understanding that many in attendance were not believers. “Many of you in our community attend our church regularly. For some of you, this may have been the first time being there,” she said.

“Laken loved to invite people to go to church with her and share her faith. Her love for our Lord, Jesus was infectious and helped many people develop or expand their relationship with our Lord and Savior,” Phillips shared. “I know my sweet Laken knew Jesus personally and she will live eternally in His home. He never left her side until the very last second she was here on earth and He will take care of her now and forever in heaven.” She added, “I find peace during this devastation in knowing that.”

Phillips wanted to extend an invitation to anyone in attendance at the Celebration of Life to come back and attend a church service. Phillips expressed love for her church and commended the pastors, Samer Massad and Chris Kim. “This ceremony would not have been possible without our church community,” explained Phillips.

“Our Lord, Jesus loves you just the way you are. He does not judge based on lifestyle or sin,” she continued. “We are all sinners and He welcomes and loves each and every one of us unconditionally. He has a place for you in His home.”

And for any parents reading her message, Phillips had specific words as well. “I can assure you that there is no greater gift that you can give your children than to walk alongside them and help them develop their relationship with Jesus,” she said.