King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia have arrived at the memorial site and laid down a bouquet of white flowers.
We are very shocked about what has happened. The whole family is shocked. And we want to show our support. And show that we also empathize, that we are also in mourning, says the King to TT.
Going forward, we must help each other, explain to each other, means the King.
We must look ahead. It is always important. But it will be difficult. It will take a long time. All of Sweden is in mourning today, says the King.
"We are with them"
The King says that he is thinking of the school management, all the students who will try to get over this, move on and come back.
I am thinking of all those who are having a tough time now. But they are not alone. We are with them, and empathize with what they have experienced and can together help support.
Queen Silvia tells TT that her great wish is that we all work together for Sweden's future.
So much has happened lately, says Queen Silvia and continues:
I really think we should bring out the fine Sweden that it has been. With its openness, with its hospitality, with receiving and taking care of all citizens.
Silent minute
In S:t Nikolaikyrkan, where a memorial service is taking place, there is a subdued but intense murmur. The church is bathed in sunlight shining through the church windows. The visitors are of all ages, many in their upper teens but also older. The organist plays as people continue to stream in.
I want to be part of the mourning. It's a heavy day, says Solveig who was early on the spot in the church.
The service begins with a silent minute. In attendance are, among others, the royal couple and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
Johan Dalman is the bishop of Strängnäs diocese and the one who led the memorial service. He says that it is difficult to prepare for such events and that he himself does it by praying.
This moment is the responsibility to gather people who are full of emptiness and sorrow and anger, says Dalman and continues:
We need to sing. We cannot sit alone and mourn alone.
