In today’s special episode, Doug and Janet share the story behind Rooted in Kerrville—a project born from their deep love of the Texas Hill Country, their partnership with Mercy Gate Ministries, and their heartache for a community forever changed by the devastating July 4 flood. This is more than a relief effort. It’s a long-term investment in soul restoration. When the flood hit, the physical damage was immense—but so was the emotional and spiritual toll. Local nonprofits like Mercy Gate are overwhelmed. Families are grieving. And pastors and helpers are exhausted, yet still showing up. In this episode, we share:

• How our work with Mercy Gate Ministries began—and why it matters now more than ever
• Why we’re developing a brand-new print resource to help Kerrville’s pastors, parents, and leaders rebuild from the inside out
• How you can support this sacred work through prayer, generosity, and presence
• Why we’re also launching a free 40-day reflection series on Substack to walk with Kerrville—and anyone grieving or disoriented—through this season of restoration

We’re not asking the people of Kerrville to give. We’re asking those of us outside the flood zone to say: “We’re still here. We see you. We believe in restoration.” Want to Help? Give to Support Long-Term Restoration - Your gift helps fund:

• The editing, design, and printing of the Rooted in Kerrville: Restoration from the Inside Out guide
• Our continued consulting and formation-based work with Mercy Gate Ministries
• Ongoing presence, training, and relational restoration efforts for the community

Give Now → john15academy.com/kerrville Walk With Us: A Ministry of Presence - We’re also publishing a free 40-day reflection series—short, gentle emails written especially for the people of Kerrville but meaningful for anyone navigating grief, disruption, or the slow work of restoration. The Substack essays are not a fundraising tool. It’s a ministry of presence. An offering of hope. And a way to remember that you’re not alone. Subscribe Free → janetnewberry.substack.com Final Word - You don’t have to be strong to be loved. You don’t have to rush your grief. You’re allowed to feel, to rest, and to heal—one day at a time. Let’s walk this road together. For Kerrville. For each other. For the kind of restoration that starts from the inside out. Together, there is great hope.