Today's service in Memorial Church to remember the victims of the Virginia Tech shooting was simple and solemn. The names of the victims were read, each followed by a strike of a bowl-shaped object (I'm not sure what it was), sending clean, lingering soundwaves throughout the church.

After the names were read, observers were invited to line up to light a candle for the victims and to comment if they wished. A few people did speak, including a man who is an alum of both Stanford and Virginia Tech. He read a poem delivered by professor and poet Nikki Giovanni during Virginia Tech's convocation, which spoke of the school's strength and ability to overcome this tragedy. The poem ends with: "We will prevail. We will prevail. We will prevail. We are Virginia Tech."

Students, faculty, administrators, and other members of the Stanford community loosely filled the church pews for the service, which was presided over by Dean McLennan and Associate Dean Sanders.

After the service, I felt nauseous, and almost started crying when I spoke to my mom on the phone afterwards. This is painful for everyone, even all the way across the country.

Outside, a reporter interviews a student.

Our petition of solidarity with the students of Virginia Tech is at 488 signatures. I'm hoping to send it to them when we reach 500.

The New York Times is covering the release of footage, photos, and writings from the killer.