There have been 34 homicides in the city of Rochester so far this year.
A professor of Christian theology at Union Theology Seminary in New York City says urban violence is an effect of self-hatred -- something churches should work to help address. Dr. James Cone says having dignity makes all the difference.
"Self-hate causes people to do mean and harmful things to the community and to themselves," Cone says "So loving yourself is very important in order for you to protect yourself and also for you to see yourself connected with other affairs."
Meanwhile, police are investigating the city's latest homicide which took place early Wednesday morning. Authorities say the double slaying was likely an interrupted robbery.
Cone was in Rochester this week for the installment of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School's 12th president Reverend Marvin McMickle.