Erik S. Hanley

Andy Remus, Vergara’s uncle, spoke at the funeral saying the family holds “no bitterness or unforgiveness” toward 15-year-old Rupnow, noting her family lost a daughter, too.

“Somehow, this precious child of God lost her way,” he said.

Vergara’s funeral was held Saturday at City Church, located next to Abundant Life on East Buckeye Road in Madison. Opening with slow guitar and just over 100 people watching on Facebook Live, the first song concluded with the words “you are God with us.”

Remus said the family is leaning into God to cope with the tragedy — along with being OK with laughter when remembering happy or funny moments.

City Church Lead Pastor Tom Flaherty opened with prayer, asking for God’s help to receive comfort so that healing can begin.

“You save those who are crushed in spirit; well we are crushed,” he prayed. “Please save us.”