Miss World Competition Begins as Beauty Queens Mourn the Tragic Death of Miss Honduras

As they always say, the show must go on.

Less than a week after Miss Honduras María José Alvarado and her sister were found dead, beauty queens from around the globe gathered in London to pay respect to the beautiful duo.

Instead of focusing on special talents and gorgeous gowns, the finalists headed to the Gibson Hall for the "Service of World Unity, Love, Thanksgiving and Remembrance." The event was also set up to honor María and her family member.

In photos posted on Miss Universe, the service featured candles, speeches and plenty of tears.

One day later, the finalists got back to business by gathering around for a photo call before vying for the all-important crown.

In true beauty pageant fashion, all the ladies had their hair and makeup perfected as they posed in a variety of dresses with Miss World 2013 Megan Young.

While the beautiful crew may be smiling big for the cameras, those close to the organization realize the sad situation surrounding this year's competition.

"We are devastated by this terrible loss of two young women, who were so full of life," Miss World Chairman Julie Morley said in a statement. "We are receiving messages of condolences and support from our Miss World family across the world, who all share our sadness at such a tragedy."

María and her sister were reported missing after attending a friend's birthday party near their hometown of Santa Barbara, Honduras. In a matter of days, their bodies had been found and two men were detained.

The beauty queen beat out 18 other contestants to win the Miss Honduras crown back in April. She was set to compete in the early rounds of Miss World this week with the rest of her competitors.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of María José Alvarado & Sofía Trinidad at this time of grief," Morley added.