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Religious leaders pray for Verizon strikers

Posted at 11:41 AM, May 04, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-04 13:26:26-04

Religious leaders gathered to pray with Verizon workers on strike in front of the Verizon Wireless store on union Road in Cheektowaga. From Rabbi to Deacon to Reverend to Sister - they were all there Wednesday morning.

They believe strikers need hope and faith to continue on strong.

Union leaders and Verizon were at the bargaining table on Monday but there's still no agreement.

Religious leaders said they're disappointed in Verizon's greed and mistreatment of their employees.

"To be able to work as human beings in a job that makes a difference should be treated fairly and justly i believe is a part of our dignity, our rights as human beings," said Sister Judy Justinger from St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church.

"They've lost their health insurance as of May 1st and in the past I have not had health insurance and I know that's really scary especially with a family," said Reverend Kirk Laubenstein. "It seems like the company has come to the table and isn't really bargaining in good faith."

Verizon workers do have the option of using Cobra.

According to CNN Verizon offered workers a 7.5% wage increase, protection from layoffs and dropped the work travel requirement.

James Wagner who's the president of CWA Local 1122 said they reviewed the offer but the union has a counter proposal.

Wagner said if Verizon negotiators stop trying to dictate the bargaining process then there's hope for resolution.

Religious leaders say prayer can change anything and that's what they'll continue to do for Verizon strikers.