Hundreds gather to pray for McDonald

Holding candles and reciting prayers along with members of the clergy in Malverne, more than 400 people gathered for a vigil to pray for Malvernite and NYPD Det. Steven McDonald at the Charles Reese Memorial Park in the village on Jan. 9. McDonald, who had a heart attack on Jan. 6, is still in critical condition at North Shore University Hospital in Nassau County.

Family, friends, politicians and those who simply are admirers of McDonald and his family, gathered to pray for his quick recovery. Village resident Lynn Macaluso said she didn't know McDonald personally, but wanted to be at the service because he is inspirational. "I know him through town and through reading Christian books about forgiveness," she said. "He's just an inspiration."

Deputy Mayor Patricia Canzoneri Fitzpatrick said during the service, "I know Steven and Patti Ann and Conor would be overwhelmed by what is going on here tonight, and so I just want to say on behalf of them, thank you everybody. They feel your support and they do feel the prayer. Please continue to pray for them, and just keep them in your hearts as they go through this very difficult time."

The vigil was organized by local residents, who quickly mobilized two days after McDonald's heart attack to create the service together. The park's gazebo was decorated in blue lights to show support of McDonald's connection to the New York Police Department. The event coincidentally occurred on National Law Enforcement Day.