SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas -- The First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs is no longer a crime scene.

On Sunday, it became a place of healing and remembrance.

“Just so that the families as they come for the funerals if they feel the need, they can come and do this," said Associated Pastor Mark Collins of the First Baptist Church. "Those that have come have said they have really felt inspired and appreciated what they did to try to honor their loved ones."

For each victim, a white chair graced with a red rose, a ribbon and their name in gold.

“Just the children, it’s just so heartbreaking," said Paula Teague, an Elmendorf resident who was the among the dozens who went inside the church. "I can’t comprehend it.”

Past recordings of the congregation’s services echoed throughout the small room.

“It was just kind of one of things where the people sitting right where they’re at when this happened and you just kind of put yourself in their shoes and you just kind of see everything,” said Phillip Perez of University City.

“It’s very sad," said Tambria Read, a Sutherland Springs resident who knew most of the victims. "The tile is gone from the floor, it’s stark white, it’s just sad.”

The memorial was made possible because of the contributions and donations of volunteers. In a week, a construction team repainted the sanctuary's floors and walls white and removed the pews, chairs and other equipment. 

In a press release, the church said "feels an immense sense of encouragement and gratitude, and extends a heartfelt thank you to the entire community -- both near and far -- for their love and support." 

Reopening was not an easy choice for the church. But one decision was clear. In a sermon earlier, Pastor Frank Pomeroy, who lost his 14-year-old daughter in the shooting, said the churchgoers "choose life" over darkness. 

“We have looked at most situations like this, it’s put under a black tarp and you never see the building again," Collins said. "We wanted people to know that we’re still here and Satan didn’t win.”