On Sunday morning, the lobby of Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church was filled not just with people, but with palpable love and sorrow. Churchgoers stood quietly around a table covered in brightly colored paper strips, writing prayers, messages of hope, and heartfelt condolences for the families who are mourning the unimaginable loss after devastating flooding swept through Camp Mystic.
Glass jars held the growing collection of written tributes, each one a small offering of comfort. Inside the sanctuary, the pews were filled to capacity — friends, neighbors, and strangers shoulder to shoulder — while many more joined via livestream, all united in grief, remembrance, and support. For many in the congregation, the tragedy hit especially close to home; numerous parishioners have deep personal ties to Camp Mystic.
“So many of our friends have been touched by this tragedy,” said church member Jennifer Lane. “My kids and I just want to help in any way we can. Right now, that means showing up, praying, and supporting those impacted.”
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