Resourcing and Praying for Families in a Time of Crisis

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." – Psalm 73:26
 
In the past several days, many of us have found our flesh and hearts failing. The news of the flooding in Kerr County, including the loss of so many campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, has been almost too much to bear. Our Houston community is deeply connected to this area, this camp, and other camps in the region. We know members of our community who lost children and many of us have a connection to one or many of the families impacted. Even if we don't personally know a family impacted, it has prompted questions on how to discuss tragedy and loss, particularly with our children.

EQUIPPING EVENT FOR PARENTS + TEENS
Walking Through Tragedy: How to Talk About Loss and Grief with Children, Teens, and Adults

Wednesday, July 9 | 5:30 PM
Chapelwood Sanctuary (11140 Greenbay, Houston, TX 77024):

We invite you to an interactive community gathering featuring Michelle Forrester, PhD, PC (child psychologist) and Donna Wotkyns, LCSW-S, (adolescent mental health counselor). Together, they will address practical strategies and answer questions on effectively supporting families, children, and teens in the aftermath of the floods. This is an opportunity for shared learning, community support, and professional insights to guide your family through recovery. The presentation will be recorded (not live-streamed) and shared with the broader community. After the session, there will be a time for prayer with pastors from Chapelwood UMC and MDUMC. We will also have crisis counselors available from Spring Branch Independent School District for families and teens as needed. This event is designed for parents and teens and it provides an important time for our community to gather together in support of one another.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY PRAYER VIGIL

Thursday, July 10 | 5:30 PM
Main Campus Sanctuary (12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079)

We invite you to a community-wide time of prayer for all those impacted by the floods. Together, we will lift up the lives lost, the families still waiting for answers, the first responders, and all those affected by this tragedy. There will be liturgy, scripture, times of silence, and remembrance. All ages are invited to attend.

PASTORAL CARE

MDUMC and Chapelwood UMC pastors and staff know that many in our community will need support in this season and we are here for you with both resources and pastoral care. If you know of families or friends who need pastoral support in our community, please let us know by emailing either: 

SPECIAL PODCAST EPISODE

“Talking to Your Children About Loss – What to Say and Not to Say”
Pod Have Mercy Podcast Release: Tuesday, July 8, 2025. 

Revs. John Stephens and Matt Russell will sit down with renowned child psychologist Dr. Michelle Forrester in a timely and practical podcast episode. Dr. Forrester will share guidance to help your children (and you) process their feelings, answer difficult questions, and nurture resilience and comfort during challenging times. You will find the podcast on Tuesday on all platforms and YouTube by searching “Pod Have Mercy” Podcast. 

COUNSELING & THERAPY RECOMMENDATIONS

Chapelwood UMC & MDUMC have compiled a list of resources for you to use and share with those who may benefit. You may find the list of counselors and pdf resources below:

FINANCIAL GIVING OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORT FLOOD RELIEF

Our ministry partners in the Hill Country have asked for funds rather than goods at this time. Funds allow them to purchase what is needed in real time and is much easier to manage.  Please stay tuned for details on donations of goods in the days ahead, and if you are able, consider making a financial donation today through one of the links below.