As search efforts continue in the flood-ravaged Texas Hill Country, prayers are rising across communities throughout Texas, including at Memorial Lutheran Church in west Houston.

On Sunday morning, the congregation gathered with heavy hearts and solemn prayers.

During the service, it was said, “The past few days have shown us the power of nature once again,” and, “We give thanks for those who have been rescued. We continue to pray for those to be safely rescued who are still missing, among them is Blakely McCrory.”

Blakely McCrory, 8, is a student at Memorial Lutheran, which is also a school, and a camper at Camp Mystic, a Christian all-girls summer camp in the Hill Country. Floodwaters swept through the Guadalupe River area where she was attending camp.

According to report the eight-year-old her father two months ago and an uncle, two weeks back.

Her family shared photos and a message with KHOU 11: “Blakely is everyone’s light in our family, and we are all praying she comes home safely.”

Associate Pastor Ned Moerbe said Blakely was one of four students from the church attending summer camp when flooding hit the area. Three of the four students have been found safe, but Blakely remains missing.

Asked how the congregation is coping, Moerbe said, “We’re trusting in the Lord and leaning on him, and we’re getting support from one another. We’re going through this together. We’re keeping the families in our prayers, as well as the individuals who are missing.”

He reflected on the situation, saying, “Sadly, sometimes it takes something really bad to bring us together, to work together.”

Moerbe expressed gratitude for rescue efforts and widespread support: “I thank God that he’s led people to go out there, to put their own lives on the line at times. I’m grateful for the love that we see throughout Texas and throughout the world as people are praying for those who are impacted by these floods.”

To parents still hoping and waiting, he said, “You’re in our prayers. We pray that God’s peace is with you, and we pray that these children are found quickly and safely.”

—-11 Alive