Billy Graham Chaplains Minister in England and Scotland Following Queen’s Passing

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) has deployed to Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle in England, as well as the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland, to minister to those mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

“The death of the queen will add to the insecurity and fear that people are currently experiencing, and we want them to know that there is hope in the Gospel message and through faith in Jesus,” said Nigel Fawcett-Jones, manager of the BG-RRT in the United Kingdom.

As of Sept. 12, 22 chaplains had been able to pray with more than 150 people, and four people had made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Throughout her 70 years on the throne, the queen often spoke of her Christian faith. Her willingness to publicly profess her faith has opened doors for BG-RRT chaplains to engage in conversations about the Lord following her passing on Sept. 8.

One chaplain serving at Buckingham Palace approached two women who had come to pay their respects. Both women were tourists and were leaving London to return home the next day. While the chaplain and the women were talking, the conversation turned to the importance that faith played in the queen’s life. The chaplain then shared that she herself had experienced a life-threatening health condition last year. No matter the outcome, she knew that her eternity was secure in the hands of God. The chaplain asked the women if they knew with certainty where they would spend eternity. Both women acknowledged that they weren’t sure. The chaplain felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to explain the “Steps to Peace With God” to the women. In turn, both women responded to the Gospel message, accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

This isn’t the first time BG-RRT chaplains have deployed following a death in the royal family.

In April 2021, chaplains offered emotional and spiritual care to those grieving outside Buckingham Palace after the death of the queen’s husband, Prince Philip, whom she was married to for 73 years.

“I’m asking people to join me in praying for the royal family and the people of the U.K.,” Franklin Graham said upon hearing of the queen’s death.

Chaplains plan to continue ministering in the U.K. until Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, which is scheduled for Sept. 19.