Pennsylvania Explosion

Blasts killed two people and injured 10 others at a U.S. Steel plant outside Pittsburgh on Monday.

Just before 11 a.m., smoke billowed from Clairton Coke Works, America’s largest manufacturing facility of coke (coal-made steelmaking fuel, not soda). The factory employs nearly 1,300 people and produces 4.3 million tons of coke annually. First responders fought flames and conducted an extensive search for two missing employees; one was found dead, and the other was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Residents within a mile of the plant were advised to remain inside with doors and windows shut “out of an abundance of caution,” though officials say air pollution levels remained within a safe range.

The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and police expect “a time-consuming technical investigation.”

CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
The hope of resurrection doesn’t mean we don’t grieve real tragedies, but it does mean that death won’t have the final word. Pray for the injured and the families of those lost, that they would turn to Christ for healing, comfort, and hope.

“O Lord… be merciful to those now wounded. Be present with those now bereaved… Your heart is always inclined toward those who suffer. Now let your mercies be active through the hands, the words, and the compassionate care of those who willingly enter this sadness to console and to serve.”
Every Moment Holy, page 149 of Volume 2