On 2 October, two people died and three others were seriously injured in a car ramming and knife attack at a synagogue in Manchester. Worshippers had gathered to mark Yom Kippur, Judaism’s holiest day.

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) arrived in Manchester in the early afternoon and began ministering and offering hope to local residents affected by the tragedy.

The atmosphere in Crumpsall was one of shock and disbelief. Local shopkeepers and residents stood in small groups near the police cordon, struggling to process the day’s events. The chaplains spoke with people of different faiths and backgrounds who shared the same message of sorrow and solidarity for their neighbours.

Chaplains also met with members of the Jewish community and representatives from the Community Security Trust (CST), expressing support and encouragement. The reassurance was warmly received by those assisting the community through this extremely difficult time.

Prayers for Peace

One couple who run a nearby shop were opening for the day when the events began to unfold. They spoke of the confusion and fear as police activity increased and the area was cordoned off. The chaplain listened to their experience and prayed with them for peace— personally, for the bereaved families, for those responding to the tragedy, and for the greater community.

A Step of Faith

Steve,* a local resident, was standing quietly near the cordon, visibly affected by the day’s events. As he talked with a chaplain, he spoke of the sadness across the neighbourhood and shared that he had once walked closely with God but had drifted away, struggling with past mistakes and old temptations. The chaplain reminded him that it is never too late to return to Jesus Christ, using the short booklet “Steps to Peace With God” to reflect on the commitment Steve had made years ago. After receiving prayer, Steve chose to rededicate his life to Jesus and has since been connected with a local BG-RRT chaplain for ongoing support.

Practical Prayers

The chaplains also spoke with a family who had been evacuated from their apartment near the synagogue shortly after the incident. Having just finished night shifts, the parents were instructed by police to leave their home for safety reasons. Hours later, they were still near the cordon, worried about important documents left inside that they needed for an upcoming appointment. The chaplain prayed with them, asking for God’s provision, peace, and a way to safely retrieve the documents. The family expressed deep gratitude for the care and support offered during such a devastating day.

Please pray for the people of Crumpsall and Greater Manchester—for the families who are grieving and for all who are affected by this tragedy across the community. Pray also for our chaplains as they share the eternal hope of Jesus Christ in the midst of crisis.

Founded in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the US, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team provides emotional and spiritual care to individuals and communities living through an unexpected tragedy or crisis. Volunteer chaplains have ministered to thousands in the Name of Jesus by listening, praying, and offering practical assistance. Your compassionate gift will help provide practical and spiritual support to those in our communities who face tragedy and crisis.

*Name changed for privacy.

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