Flood Relief Update

Our hearts and prayers have been with all those affected by the recent floods across Central Texas.  Earlier this month we joined together for a special prayer service to pray for the victims and those who lost loved ones; we also prayed for first responders, recovery workers, and all who are helping people rebuild their lives.  The prayers continue, while the rebuilding has just begun. 

We are working with other United Methodist churches and organizations in our region who are working together to coordinate flood relief efforts.  We are in regular communication with Jeremy Bassett, our Horizon Texas Conference Disaster Relief Coordinator.  He is helping coordinate the initial wave of emergency relief support, the on-going damage and needs assessment, and the long-term plan for recovery efforts.  You can watch his latest report on our social media platforms or here.  We are still in the initial phases of our disaster response.

At some point Early Response Teams trained for emergency disaster response by the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) will step in as local officials and Conference partners request them. In the months ahead we hope to be able to offer short term volunteer service opportunities to work across our region to help repair and rebuild. Other natural disasters like hurricanes remind us that patience is needed because the recovery and rebuilding process is quite lengthy.  Donny Vance, our church's UMCOR lead, and Jerremy Bassett, will keep us informed of all service opportunities as they emerge.

I am pleased to report that our church is preparing to send at least $15,000 to support the UMCOR disaster relief efforts here in Central Texas.  Your generosity is a beautiful way of expressing God's love and presence in the lives of those who need it most.  Our prayers and gifts are two of the most important ways we can help.  You may continue to donate to UMCOR disaster relief online at fumc-rr/give or by texting FIRSTLOVE to 44321.

Please continue to pray for families who grieve, those who are trying to rebuild their lives, and the relief and recovery workers.  And please continue to monitor our website and social media for the latest updates. Our prayers and financial gifts are the most important ways we support flood relief at this time.

If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our mission leads at missions@fumc-rr.org