Discussion Questions:
- How did Matt Colwell initially react to the loss of his home, and what were some immediate steps he and his family took following the evacuation?
- Describe the role that the community, including Matt’s church members, played in supporting him and his family after the fire.
- Credo provided Markus Watson a space for healing during a difficult time in his life. How does this reflect the importance of support networks in times of crisis?
- How did Matt Colwell navigate his responsibilities as a pastor while also dealing with his own personal loss?
- In what ways did the church’s mission and core values guide Matt through this challenging time?
- Discuss the significance of maintaining spiritual practices for Matt Colwell during the aftermath of the fire. How did these practices aid in his coping process?
- What challenges did Matt Colwell identify regarding housing and community rebuilding efforts, especially in light of existing housing crises in Southern California?
- How has the experience of the fire and its aftermath shaped the congregation at Knox Presbyterian Church in terms of their mission and community care?
- Matt noted the importance of mentors, friends, and partners in crisis. How do these relationships contribute to resilience and adaptive capacity in leadership roles?
- Reflecting on Matt’s experience and advice, what insights can be gained about preparing for and responding to unexpected crises in community leadership settings?
