Hierarchs Share Prayers for Victims of Texas Flooding

Trees emerge from flood waters along the Guadalupe River on Friday in Kerrville, Texas. Photo: Eric Vryn/Getty Images

TEXAS — The death toll from flooding across central Texas has reached 89, with 27 of those deaths being young campers and counselors at an all-girls summer camp along the Guadalupe River.

The 89 deaths span across six counties in the state, with Kerr County accounting for nearly all of them with 75.

In the wake of the shocking events in Texas, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of GOARCH and His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon of the OCA each released statements of solidarity.

On July 5, Archbishop Elpidophoros said that he was offering the prayers of the entire Archdiocese for the victims of the tragedy in central Texas.

“We mourn the lives that have been lost – especially the innocent children whose bright hopes were extinguished in the deluge,” he said. “Their pain is not distant from us. It pierces our hearts, for every child belongs to us all, and in every bereaved parent, we see the Theotokos herself, standing at the Cross.”

His Eminence said that the faithful share in the agony of the families awaiting word on missing loved ones, and beseech the Lord Jesus Christ to “guard and guide those who are still unaccounted for.”

“May His divine mercy surround the rescue workers who press forward,” he concluded.

On July 6, Metropolitan Tikhon said that he was deeply saddened to hear of the flooding and the loss of life it has created.

“At this time, with many still missing, I urge the clergy and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America to pray for the efforts of first responders and all involved in search efforts,” he said. “I also pray that the Lord would extend his great comfort to all those who have suffered loss of loved ones or friends due to this disaster, or who were harmed by these floods in any way.” 

His Beatitude called to mind Romans 12:15 and the “apostolic command” to “weep with those who weep.” He said that he, and all the clergy and faithful of the OCA, join with those affected and all citizens of this country in mourning the tragedy.

“To all those assisting the victims of this flood, may God grant his protection and blessing, and many years. To all those who have suffered because of this disaster, may God show his comfort and mercy. To all those who lost loved ones and friends in this tragedy, may God reveal his compassion and love.”

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