Fr. Dempsey's Message and Prayer for the Kerr County Floods

Dear Members of the UST Family,

Our hearts go out to all those affected by the devastating floods in Kerr County, Texas, that occurred between July 4th and 5th, 2025. It is truly an extraordinary catastrophe, and we are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of life, especially among children. Our thoughts are with the families and communities grappling with this immense sorrow.

We, the UST family, are holding the residents of Kerr County in our prayers, particularly those who have lost loved ones or are searching for the unaccounted campers from Camp Mystic. In these incredibly difficult times, we stand in solidarity with them, offering our deepest condolences and unwavering support. May God's strength and resilience guide them through this period of grief and recovery.

The Letter of James 2:14-17 reminds us that our faith in God is actively demonstrated through acts of charity and service to those in need. This profound principle calls us to respond with compassion in times of crisis.

As the community of Kerrville, Texas, faces significant devastation, it is imperative that we unite to provide essential support. The University of St. Thomas is dedicated to assisting our fellow Texans in their recovery efforts.

In a tangible display of solidarity, the University of St. Thomas will be deploying multiple trailers filled with crucial recovery supplies to Notre Dame Catholic Church in Kerrville, directly aiding those affected by the recent events.

From July 7 to July 10, 2025, the UST Veteran Success Center will be accepting donations of essential items from 9 am to 3 pm each day. We invite you to drop off your contributions at the Veteran Success Center located at 4121 Yoakum Boulevard, Houston, TX 77006.

We are specifically seeking the following items for donation:

• Nonperishable food items
• Bottled water
• Gently used clothes of all sizes
• Gently used shoes of all sizes
• Dog and cat food

To facilitate easy loading and sorting, we kindly ask that all donated items be bagged or placed in plastic totes. We truly appreciate your generosity and encourage you to take a moment to walk through your pantry and closet for items you no longer need or want.

As a community of faith, we are called to actively respond to the suffering of others and cannot remain indifferent. Our collective compassion is essential in these challenging times. Therefore, I extend an earnest invitation to all members of our UST community to participate in this vital effort. Your involvement can make a significant difference in alleviating the hardship faced by those in need.

I am profoundly grateful to God for Dr. Trisha Ruiz, who is coordinating and spearheading this noble and honorable initiative through our Veteran Center. Her leadership is invaluable in this endeavor.

Should you have any questions or require further information about this initiative, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Trisha Ruiz at 858-336-3431.

Thank you for your support as we unite to assist our neighbors in Kerrville. Your solidarity is deeply appreciated during this challenging time and our actions reflect our shared commitment to faith, compassion, and community support.

We pray that the Good Lord continues to grant strength, resilience, and serenity to all those impacted by the devastation. May they find comfort and hope in our collective efforts.

May God bless you all.

Laudetur Iesus Christus,

Fr. Dempsey Rosales Acosta SSL., STD.