Resourcing and Praying for Families in a Time of Crisis

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.

RESOURCES

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

On Wednesday, July 9, our community gathered to hear practical strategies on effectively supporting families, children, and teens in the aftermath of the floods. Dr. Michelle Forrester, PhD, PC (child psychologist) and Donna Wotkyns, LCSW-S, (adolescent mental health counselor) offered suggestions and answered questions, facilitated by Dr. Matt Russell and Dr. John Stephens. A video recording of the event is posted above. 

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: 

• MDUMC pastor Rev. Jennifer Veres-Schrecengost at jennifervs@mdumc.org  (713-468-8356), or

• Chapelwood pastor Rev. Andrew Wolfe at awolfe@chapelwood.org(713-354-4435)

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:

RELIEF EFFORTS

GIVE FINANCIALLY

In the aftermath of the devastating flooding along the Guadalupe River and surrounding Hill Country communities, many families and entire towns are facing unimaginable loss and long roads to recovery. One of the most immediate and effective ways to make a difference is through financial support. Your generosity will support immediate needs in the affected areas while also helping to resource long-term recovery efforts.

DONATE SUPPLIES

What We’re Collecting (Starting Sunday, July 13):

• Heavy-duty shovels

• Heavy-duty rakes

• Heavy-duty pick axes

• Canned food (Goal: 2,500 cans)

You can drop off donations:

• On Sundays at either campus

• During the week at the Main Campus office

Prefer to ship directly?
Order through our Amazon Wish List.

Check back here for ways we continue to support the Hill Country in their recovery.

Questions? Contact communications@mdumc.org