MCCALLA, AL – In the quiet town of McCalla, community members numbering over 300 gathered for an emotional prayer service at the Oasis of Praise Church following a devastating family tragedy. The focus of the evening was to offer support for Lead Pastors Allan and Gay Kendrick, who are mourning after their grandson was charged with the murder of his wife and four children.

The somber service, held Friday night, included an hour of music and prayer. It was a time for togetherness and healing, with Associate Pastor Patrick Cooper speaking to the congregation. Cooper emphasized the church’s role as a source of love and support during this difficult time, underlining the importance of prayer rather than seeking details about the incident.

Brandon Allan Kendrick II, 32, the grandson of the Kendricks, was detained in the Bibb County Jail, facing five counts of capital murder. In a harrowing 911 call on Thursday, deputies were alerted to the shooting of a child on Greentree Drive. Court documents reveal that Kendrick is accused of using a handgun to fatally shoot his 24-year-old wife, Kelse Kendrick, in the head, along with his two children and two other children aged 2, 6, and 9 years old.

Patrick Cooper shared his conviction that Pastor Allan Kendrick would rely on his faith to navigate the grief caused by the tragedy, commending the pastor’s strength as an example for others grappling with loss and adversity.

The suspect’s family, shaken by the events, is experiencing an unprecedented test of faith with the Oasis of Praise Church community unequivocally standing in solace and solidarity with the Kendricks during their time of distress.