As worship services wrapped up Sunday morning, November 5, churchgoers across the conference began to hear the terrible news out of Sutherland Springs. The tiny town about 40 miles east of San Antonio was rocked that morning when a gunman opened fire inside First Baptist Church, killing at least 26 and injuring 20 more.

In response, Rio Texas Churches have reached out in support of the church and community. Churches have also sought support in ways to be in ministry with those who grieve and to ensure the safety of congregations. The resources below are being provided to help local churches respond.

Those interested in making a monetary donation to the victims and their families can do so here: 

Sutherland Springs Response Fund - Floresville UMC

A guide for Holy Conversation in your family followed by prayers, family devotionals, and resources. The hope is that these resources will help your family and the families in your community process, reflect, and respond to this tragedy.

Prior to the recent tragedy, the annual conference was working with our insurer, Church Mutual, to provide church safety training. This training is being planned for spring of 2018. In the meantime, we have assembled resources to help your church create and implement a safety plan.