At memorial sites around the John Oliver Elementary School in Vancouver, residents and survivors of the deadly car ramming attack on April 26 are laying flowers and messages to those lost. There are mixed emotions written across their faces, ranging from shock, grief, anger, and some lingering fear. But amidst the tears, there is also a sense of unity and love as a grieving community comes together.
Among those gathered, Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) chaplains are also present and providing a ministry of presence and prayer. One chaplain was standing beside a young Filipino man, Clark*, who had been at the Lapu Lapu festival and witnessed the incident. When she asked how he was holding up, he opened up. “I still hear the screams and see the images in my mind,” he said tearfully. He knows some of the hospitalized people and was with them that night. When Clark tried to return to work, he broke down after a co-worker asked how he was doing. The following day, Clark returned to the scene to bring flowers in remembrance. In the midst of his fear and grief, God led our chaplains to be there to offer Clark comfort and hope in Jesus’ Name. Clark welcomed a prayer of comfort and healing from our chaplain. After the prayer, Clark hugged the chaplain and wept openly. “I appreciate the kindness and comfort,” Clark said. Our chaplain encouraged him to continue praying and leaning into Jesus.
Many more from the Filipino community have approached our chaplains either to share their experiences or simply ask for a hug. Knowing they are seen and loved helps to ease even a small part of their grief.
In the aftermath of the attack, 11 people were killed and dozens more were injured and hospitalized. The suspect is in custody and facing charges. Later this week, our chaplains will host Sharing Hope in Crisis at a local Filipino church. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s training course helps equip others who want to share the love and compassion of Jesus Christ in times of crisis or disaster.
Please join us in praying for the family members of those killed and wounded, and for the Filipino community in their time of grief.
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