Crisis-trained chaplains with the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team were on the ground to offer a ministry of presence in Manchester, England, after a deadly bombing claimed the lives of 22 people and injured more than 100 others in late May.
The chaplains also took time to visit with law enforcement officials, many of whom were from out of town. “They’re working long shifts away from home so we’re taking time just to encourage them and thank them for the service they’re doing for this community,” chaplain coordinator Nigel Fawcett-Jones said during the deployment.
Chatting with a man who stopped by the memorial.
Children were among the victims of the bombing, and that inspired some of their peers at the memorial site to ask their own questions.
The chaplains ministered alongside a local church, sharing in conversation with people who visited the makeshift memorial at St. Ann’s Square to pay their respects.
“One of the most wonderful things that we’ve seen here is just the willingness of people to stand and pray,” Fawcett-Jones said.
Sharing a lighthearted moment.
For many, the tragedy hit close to home for several reasons, particularly the fact that there were so many children involved. “They feel it just highlighted the vulnerability of childhood, the dreams and aspirations of the youngsters; the plans have just been wiped out by this atrocious attack, this evil,” Fawcett-Jones said. “So people really do want to stand in solidarity and come together to show a community response to what has happened.”
Flowers, balloons and personal notes were among the items that buried St. Ann's Square in memory of the victims. Would you please keep this community in prayer?
