Texas turns to faith as Gov. Abbott declares 'Day of Prayer' amid devastating floods

Texas leaders across political lines urge prayer for flood victims as the state, ranked third most religious in the U.S., copes with devastating floods that have claimed at least 80 lives.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, center, tours Camp Mystic along the banks of the Guadalupe River after a flash flood swept through the area Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Hunt, Texas.  (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

And across the political aisle, a former Texas congressman and 2020 presidential candidate, Democrat Beto O'Rourke, encouraged prayer and donations for those impacted by the floods.  

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"Please pray with me while over 500 first responders continue their search for those still missing. Pray we find survivors," Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, said as he encouraged Texans to join the day of prayer. 

Texas is one of the more religious states in the U.S., particularly in the South, according to the Pew Research Center's Religious Landscape study released in 2024. The same study found 67% of Texans are Christian. 

"Please pray right now for everyone in the Hill Country, especially Camp Mystic," Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas., said Friday

First responders scan the banks of the Guadalupe River for individuals swept away by flooding in Ingram, Texas, Friday, July 4, 2025. (Michel Fortier/The San Antonio Express-News via AP)

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick told Fox News Channel that at Camp Mystic, "The water was at the door. The camp counselor took a rock and smashed out the window. They climbed out the window in bare feet and nothing but a night gown on, in neck-high water."

"Please continue to pray for the families affected by this tragedy," Patrick urged Texans. 

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And Attorney General Ken Paxton said, "Texans are praying for these families. God be with them during this time of unimaginable pain and suffering."

Fox News Digital's Stephen Sorace contributed to this report. 

Deirdre Heavey is a politics writer for Fox News Digital. 

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