 A Familiar Face Returns: Persis Comfort Dog Into this heartbreak walked a familiar and beloved companion--LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Persis (Christ the Redeemer - Tulsa, Oklahoma). Persis and her handler had been to Ruidoso before, offering comfort during last year’s disasters and building strong ties with the local community, especially Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. Back in April, Pastor Rust’s wife, Rebecca, called with a simple request: could they return and help teach at Vacation Bible School (VBS) this summer? The kids were still hurting, still remembering the fear and loss. The answer was an immediate and heartfelt yes. VBS in the Midst of Chaos No one imagined that during VBS, they would be facing the same fear all over again. Flood warnings lit up phones. The skies darkened. And yet—the team pressed on. This year's VBS focused on courage through fire and flood. The timing couldn’t have been more relevant. The children—many of whom had lost homes, pets, or loved ones—were invited into a space where fear was acknowledged and faith was lifted up. “GO Bags” and a Light in the Darkness One of the most powerful tools given to the kids this year were “GO Bags”—simple emergency backpacks filled with essentials like flashlights, snacks, and something far more precious: hope. The children were told, “If you ever have to leave quickly again, grab this bag—and remember that Jesus is your light in the darkness.” The message landed in hearts that needed it.  Comfort Books, Journaling, and Real Conversations Throughout the week, the children also made comfort books, writing and drawing about the ways God brings peace. They journaled daily about their feelings—how they cope, who they trust, and where they see God when life feels scary. One young boy, wrapped in tin foil, called himself a “soldier with armor so nothing could hurt him.” This led to a heartfelt lesson on the Armor of God—and the truth that only God can truly save and protect us. Persis and the Power of Presence Persis quietly became a beacon of calm. Her presence softened the anxiety in the room. Her gentle eyes and steady calm reminded these children that peace is still possible, even when the world feels uncertain. One little girl, after spending time with Persis, returned wearing a dog hat and said, “Persis made me happy, so I want to make Persis happy.” It was a moment of light and laughter the group desperately needed. From VBS to the Front Lines of Grief As flash flooding escalated around them, Persis’s team served beyond VBS. They were stationed at the local hospital’s ER, which became a rescue and recovery center. They stayed through the night as officials confirmed that all missing persons had been found. Tragically, they were present when officers had to notify a family that their child had died. It was sacred, painful work—and they knew they were exactly where God wanted them to be. Resilience in a Town That Keeps Getting Knocked Down Despite the fear and warnings, VBS continued. The kids needed it. Healing continued. Volunteers—some of whom had lost everything in last year’s floods—showed up with open hands and hearts. Stories were shared. Prayers were lifted. Joy peeked through sorrow. Many in Ruidoso depend on tourism and the local horse track—both of which were damaged again in the flooding. The economic and emotional toll is heavy. But the faith of this community is deeper than the water that rushed through their streets.
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