Hurricane Harvey caused record-breaking amounts of flooding in Southeast Texas, including some flooding on campus. The Wesley Foundation had four inches of water in their building, leaving members to clean out moldy insulation within the walls.

Several congregations from Texas came to aid the foundation with helping hands.

“We came to help wherever we can,” Pastor John Whitehurst of Grace Crossing Methodist Church in Longview said. “It’s been wonderful knowing that we can help rebuild the homes of families that lost everything and being able to just be there for them.”

Reverend Amy Walker, Wesley Foundation congregation leader, said she is grateful for the assistance.

“The United Methodist Church is extremely connected,” she said. “The churches in our district asked where help was needed and we’re thankful that they came during this time.”

This is not the first time the building has flooded. It has taken on water five other times, each requiring restoration, but Walker says that’s not going to hinder service.

“After we tear out the insulation in the walls and clean all of the mold out, then we can hold our worship services,” she said. “You don’t need walls to worship.”

Olivia Malick, UP staff writer