Helping Our Neighbors in Crisis
A special letter from the rector and a round-up of resources for our community
On Sunday, we gathered with a unique heaviness among us as we carried the tragic events that happened along the Guadalupe River and in Kerr County this weekend. This morning in our staff meeting, we gathered to pray and reflect on what we could do to care for one another and how we could care for, support, and lead our community to be instruments of God’s love for our suffering neighbors. In this letter, I want to relay the same sentiment we hear from our bishop, Andy Doyle, who wrote about this,
“Right now, they need our prayers, and our own parishioners with kiddos at camp out there need to know they are not alone. So we begin, as we have begun so many times before. We remember God is with our beloved friends and human family. And, we pray. We wait for the call and then we will answer the call giving and working to love and care as God’s hands in the world.”
In the midst of this pain, which can feel too much to bear, I find it comforting to remember that God is not far off but present with those who suffer. Psalm 34:18 tells us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” God is also with those first responders and their families who are extending themselves for the sake of others. I was in contact with our own Ralph Delgado, a firefighter deployed to the relief efforts. He permitted me to share this prayer request for himself and other first responders who are working tirelessly: "Pray for steadiness, and peace of mind that we are doing enough, that we are helping even by bringing closure to families for the loved ones that they have lost."
Parents, if you need help thinking through how to talk to your kids about all of this, Melissa has included some resources for you below.
At the moment, reports indicate that volunteer needs are at capacity, but financial resources are the best way to propel the relief efforts. To that end, we have set up a designated fund to collect donations as a church that we will give to the Diocese of West Texas. These resources will be coordinated through the clergy and lay leaders of St. Peter’s, Kerrville. I am also working with our vestry to consider how the church can contribute financially as well. Our collective efforts are an expression of prayer in action, especially for those who pray, “I lift up my eyes to the hills – from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2)
If you would like to give with us, I encourage you to donate here:
Thank you for being a community of prayer, support, and generosity.
Peace,
The Rev. Dr. Shawn McCain Tirres
Rector, Resurrection South Austin Episcopal Church
Resources for parents
How to talk with your kids
From Meredith Miller
More at meredithannemiller.com
“In tragedy, needing to talk with kids adds an extra layer to something that’s already heavy. While some people believe we all have to tell our kids everything immediately, lest they be sheltered, that neglects the uniqueness of your kid and context. But there are many ways to keep our kids informed. Instead, you are a wise filter for what your kid needs to hear, when they need to hear it, and how much detail to provide. You are a wise filter because you are an adult and they are children. You are a wise filter because you are their adult and they are your children.”
Here are a few questions you might find helpful.
Should I tell my kid?
Will they hear about it elsewhere, so it should come from me?
Is there an action for them to take, especially one that keeps them or other safe?
How do I forsee it will affect them?
Consider your kid uniquely, as well as your context.
Will they tell others? Is that ok?
Are they able to keep some things as family conversations?
Am I collected enough to focus on their needs in the conversation?
If you would like to talk more about how to talk with your kid, please feel free to reach out to Melissa Gray (melissag@rezaustin.com).
