In a heart-wrenching incident that shocked the McCalla community, more than 300 people gathered at Oasis of Praise Church on Friday night for a solemn prayer service, showing support for Lead Pastors Allan and Gay Kendrick and their family. The prayer service was held after their grandson allegedly killed his wife and four children.

Associate Pastor Patrick Cooper took the stage and addressed the congregation after an hour of singing praise music and prayer. He made it clear that their role as a church was to provide love and support to the grieving family, rather than delve into details of the tragedy. Cooper emphasized the importance of praying for everyone involved and not seeking to know every aspect of the situation.

Charges have been filed against Brandon Allan Kendrick II, 32, who is currently being held at the Bibb County Jail on five counts of capital murder. According to charging documents, Kendrick allegedly shot his 24-year-old wife, Kelse Kendrick, in the head with a handgun. Tragically, the four children, aged 2, 6, and 9, also succumbed to fatal gunshot wounds.

While the community grapples with the enormity of the tragedy, Cooper expressed his belief that Lead Pastor Allan Kendrick would find solace and strength in his faith. He commended the pastor's unwavering strength, sharing how even in the face of the pain, Kendrick had already shown his reliance on God. Cooper referred to Kendrick as a shining example of how to navigate through grief and hardship.

The prayer service served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and faith during times of immense sorrow. It brought together people from all walks of life, united in their shared commitment to supporting the Kendrick family during this unfathomable ordeal.

As this heartbreaking event continues to unfold, the Oasis of Praise Church community, along with the wider McCalla community, vows to stand together, offering prayers and unwavering support to those affected by this unimaginable tragedy.