Crisis-trained chaplains with the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team have been listening, talking and praying with people in New York City after a deadly truck attack shook the area on Tuesday.
Police and witnesses say a man raced a rental truck down a busy bike path on Tuesday afternoon, apparently targeting pedestrians and bicyclists. The attack, while only a few minutes in length, spanned several blocks and left a lot of questions. Chaplains have listened and prayed with many who have opened up to them this week.
Thursday night, mourners took part in a march on the bike path. The walk ended in a candlelight vigil near the spot where the attack ended.
Young people stop to talk with a Rapid Response Team chaplain.
Taking time out of his day to find out how to have hope in Christ now—and in heaven.
Huddled in prayer with passersby all around makes for a good witness for Christ.
“When we see terror attacks and the murder of innocent people, the pain, fear and sorrow are deep. Mourners will work through many different emotions over the coming days as they seek answers to very difficult questions,” said Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “Our chaplains will stand alongside them to listen and offer the hope and comfort of Jesus in these dark days.”
A police officer on duty as a chaplain prays nearby.
Listening to people as they process what happened is a vital part of a chaplain's job.
Please continue to pray for first responders, hospital staff and all others who are dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy.
The apparent act of terror unfolded near the World Trade Center memorial and is considered the deadliest attack on New York City since 9/11.
A Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplain listens as one man shares his story.
Jeff Naber, a chaplain manager with the Rapid Response Team, helps one inquisitive young man learn more about having peace with God.
The Bible declares, "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him; to all who call upon Him in truth" (Psalm 145:18).
Ministry has been stretching later in the day as people stop to chat during their evening commute.
Please take time to remember all impacted by this tragedy in your prayers.
