We Hope. we grieve. we pray.
Dear ECCC Community,
Last week, I was visiting Camp Hardtner during their Mid-High session. Like many of you, I was immersed in the joy of camp—playing games, singing songs, and sharing in faith formation. Yet even in the midst of laughter and light, my heart was heavy as I closely followed news of the devastating floods unfolding in Texas.
Throughout the week, Rob Watson—Director of Camp Ministries for the Diocese of West Texas—kept our board informed, reminding us just how close to home this disaster was. As a board, we prayed together and held space for one another as the situation unfolded.
The camp community also lost two beloved leaders and mentors:
Jane Ragsdale, Director and Co-Owner of Heart O’ the Hills summer camp
Dick Eastland, the Owner and Director of Camp Mystic.
These are names known well beyond Texas. Jane and Dick shaped generations of campers and staff. They led with heart, integrity, and deep love for the camping world. Their legacies ripple through every life they touched and every campfire that carries on their spirit.
And our grief deepens.
This morning, July 8th, at a press conference, it was confirmed that five campers and one counselor from Camp Mystic are still unaccounted for.
Over the weekend, I was sent a video of Camp Mystic campers being evacuated on a bus, singing familiar songs: Pass It On. Sanctuary. Seek Ye First. Amazing Grace. Amazing Grace, Alleluia. You Are My All in All. Songs that echo through cabins and chapels across our ECCC network. I imagine that in the midst of shock and fear, those familiar melodies brought a small amount of comfort.
We also learned that at least 12 camps across the region sustained damage from the floods—impacting staff, schedules, and sacred places just as many were in the middle of summer programming. Recovery will take time, resources, and the full strength of our shared support.
If you are looking for something to do:
Pray. With your camp community, your staff, your family.
Sing. Lift up the songs we share as a sign of unity and hope.
Share Stories Tell the stories of your own camp memories. Post a photo. Name a mentor who made a difference. Remember a camper who changed your life. Let’s remind one another of the beauty and power of camp.
Give. Here are other organizations that will directly support the flood relief effort:
Write. We are gathering letters, cards, drawings, and prayers from the ECCC network to support the Camp Mystic community. These expressions will help camp leaders and communities process grief while providing comfort to Camp Mystic's staff and families on their path to recovery and families comfort and strength in the weeks to come, especially as the initial crisis gives way to the long journey of healing.
Please send your messages by Monday, July 21st, to:
Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers
Camp Mystic Support
P.O. Box 180247
Chicago, IL 60618
Film. record a short video message (20 seconds or less) from your camp sharing love, prayers, or encouragement and upload it to this Google Folder. I will compile these messages into one powerful video from camps across the country to send strength and solidarity to Camp Mystic. More info here.
Being part of the camp family means we carry each other. In joy and in sorrow, no one walks alone. Please join me in continuing to hold the entire Texas camp community in prayer.
-Jess
