A Camp After Crisis Brings Relief
Following the devastating July floods in Kerrville, Texas, Trinity Baptist Church provided third through fifth graders a chance to recover emotionally at Alto Frio Baptist Encampment in Leakey from July 21st to 24th. Children’s minister Kellee Parish described the retreat as a “camp after a crisis,” highlighting the power of prayer and community support. The church rallied behind the campers with prayer cards and encouragement for counselors.
Safety First After Nearby Tragedy
In response to the recent tragedy at Camp Mystic, Alto Frio’s organizers postponed a prior youth camp to ensure safe road conditions. They also used social media to keep families informed about the camp’s emergency protocols and Frio River conditions. Trinity Baptist Pastor John Wheat expressed complete confidence in Alto Frio’s precautions and praised the camp for giving children a sense of normalcy amid community grief.
Trust, Faith, and Fun Amid Grief
Parents expressed minimal hesitation about sending their children to camp. Parish noted that only a couple of families opted out, while some other churches chose not to attend. Most parents understood the camp was on a different river and supported the church’s safety measures. Camp included an unexpected visit from Xtreme Obedience, a ministry using trained dogs, which offered therapeutic comfort to kids during emotional moments.
Spiritual Renewal and Calm in Chaos
Keith Smith, pastor from South Sub Church in Colorado and camp speaker, shared how he prayed for the children’s healing. Many had not only endured floods but also carried trauma from events like the 2022 Uvalde school shooting. Smith described the atmosphere as peaceful and spiritually grounded, even during thunderstorms. The camp’s theme, “GLOW,” emphasized grace, love, obedience, and worship, echoing Ephesians 5:8.
A Long Road Ahead
Though camp offered temporary relief, Parish emphasized that healing is far from over in Kerrville. PTSD and emotional distress remain widespread. “We are in this for the long haul,” she said. Camp may have helped the children begin to heal, but ongoing support and prayer are still needed.
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Late-summer camp offers respite for Hill Country kids
Photo by Josh Campbell on Unsplash
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