On Sunday 3 May, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) deployed to Bristol after a tragic explosion in the Frenchay area left two people dead and several others injured.
Emergency services were called to a home on Sterncourt Road in the early hours of the morning, shortly before an explosion occurred at around 06:30 BST. A man and a woman lost their lives, while three others—a man, woman, and child—were taken to hospital with minor injuries. Residents in the surrounding area were evacuated as authorities secured the scene and began investigations.
As the situation unfolded, many in the community were left shaken, displaced, and searching for reassurance.
That same day, BG-RRT chaplains arrived and quickly connected with local partners at Frenchay Parish Church. Led by Reverend Anton Campbell, the church opened its doors as a place of refuge and became a base for the chaplaincy team throughout the deployment.
Later that evening, chaplains visited a Rest Centre where evacuated residents had gathered. Some had been relocated to hotels or family homes, while others remained at the centre, uncertain about when they would be able to return. Many were vulnerable and visibly distressed, carrying the weight of sudden displacement and the trauma of the incident.
In the midst of this, chaplains offered a steady, compassionate presence—listening to stories, praying with individuals, and gently pointing people to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
John (40) shared about his struggles with mental health and the loss of his mother and grandmother, both of whom had held a Christian faith. Though he had not personally explored faith, he was open to conversation and accepted prayer.
Michael (48), who identified as Mormon, spoke about the recent death of his wife and the support he has received from his stepson during a season of depression. While he was not ready to receive prayer, he expressed appreciation for the chaplain’s care and willingness to listen.
Several elderly residents were also engaged, though many were too traumatised to speak. Others voiced concern for pets left behind in evacuated homes. Chaplains remained present into the evening, offering quiet support until residents were eventually allowed to return home and the Rest Centre closed later that night.
On Monday 4 May, the team returned to Frenchay Parish Church, which continued to serve as a welcoming space for the community. They also revisited the incident site, where a police cordon remained in place and investigative work was ongoing.
Chaplains spent time engaging with officers on duty, many of whom were open to conversation, and a senior officer expressed gratitude for the team’s presence and support.
Local residents shared that the heavy media presence had been overwhelming, leading many to stay indoors. Despite this, meaningful conversations continued.
Joan, who has ties to the Salvation Army, reflected on her family’s Christian heritage and spoke about a lack of community cohesion in the area. Chaplains prayed with her.
Later at the church, visitors came in seeking quiet and comfort. Among them was Derek, who was visibly distressed as he spoke about his wife living with severe dementia in a care home. Though he did not identify as having a personal faith, he was open to discussion. After a thoughtful conversation, chaplains provided him with a Why Jesus? booklet and a Steps to Peace with God resource. He was not ready to make a commitment but was willing to continue exploring and received prayer.
Throughout the deployment, chaplains were able to meet people in moments of grief, uncertainty, and reflection—offering both emotional and spiritual care in a time of crisis. The partnership with the local church provided a vital anchor for the response, creating a visible place of hope and support within the community.
We praise God for the doors He opened for meaningful conversations, for the opportunity to bring His peace into a time of tragedy, and for each life that was touched through prayer and presence. Please continue praying for all those affected by this incident—for comfort for those grieving, healing for those impacted, and that many would come to know the hope found in Jesus Christ.
