It was a day of “undeniable joy” and “showing up for families.”

More than 4,700 Southern California residents turned out Saturday, April 12,  for the Recovery Pop-Up at the Dream Center event in Los Angeles — and in the middle of it all was the newly formed Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) from St. John’s Lutheran Charge in Orange, CA, lending their hands to families impacted by the state’s wildfires.

From assembling lanyards to gathering and carrying household goods to their vehicles, the St. John’s team donned their bright yellow vests with crosses, representing Lutheran Church Charities, and were a helping presence at the massive Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) production sponsored by Global Empowerment Mission. More than 1,300 families were counted for a day of carnival fun, free resources, and community connection.

“We walked around and offered assistance,” said Jason Johnson, Disaster Crisis Response and Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for LCC’s West Coast region. “Many people felt comfortable approaching us and sharing their stories.”

"One family’s home survived the fire, but smoke damage has prevented them from living in it. But they are making it, thanks to help from friends they are living with," Johnson said.

Another family lost their home, but they were able to find their grandmother’s ring while sifting through the remains.

Others are still coping with loss.

A mom with two teen daughters lost pictures of grandparents in the fire. A missionary attending Fuller Seminary saw her home burned, but her faith has kept her strong.
   
“From the smiles of the families to the dancing and laughter to the deep, soul-touching connections created, it was powerful,” said Elizabeth Jernberg of Global Empowerment Mission, who thanked the St. John’s Orange LERT volunteers for being there. “You all showed up under the sun, with sweat and smiles, and gave it your all. You should be incredibly proud.”

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster! If you feel called to support this mission, consider donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, so we can continue to BE PRESENT to bring hope to those suffering and in need.

Among the many touching stories of service, two elderly neighbors—aged 88 and 91—faced an especially daunting challenge. A massive pine tree had fallen between their yards, blocking their access and creating a hazardous situation. A nearby company had quoted an exorbitant price, requiring a crane to remove the tree, which neither neighbor could afford.

But the LERT volunteers stepped in, cutting down the tree with care and precision, removing it from the property at no cost. As a final touch, they raked the yards, clearing debris and leaving a clean, safe space behind. The elderly women expressed heartfelt gratitude, overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to them.

Through these selfless acts of service, the LERT team not only cleared fallen trees but also brought the light of hope to these neighbors, many of whom had nowhere else to turn. In a world filled with hardship, the LERT volunteers’ willingness to serve in the name of the Lord brought comfort and healing in a tangible way. It’s a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make when we offer it freely, especially in times of crisis.

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training (more details below), donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

On Monday, April 14, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Eden (Peace - Columbus, Nebraska), Meshach (Peace - Grand Island, Nebraska), and Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska) had the honor of attending the funeral of Barry Eckstrom in Norfolk, Nebraska. Invited by Rev. Mike Moreno of Christ Lutheran Church—a long-time friend of the Comfort Dog Ministry—the team was present to bring calm, comfort, and companionship during a deeply emotional time.

Barry was a beloved member of the community, especially among individuals with developmental disabilities. Many gathered to remember their friend, though some found it difficult to express their grief. The comforting presence of the dogs provided a much-needed source of peace, connection, and support.

As stories were shared, it became clear that Barry lived a life rooted in joy, faith, and service. He was known for his big heart, dedication, and unwavering spirit. Barry was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church and a strong advocate in the community. He served on the board of the Arc of Norfolk, led as President of People First, and competed as a bowler in the Special Olympics. In July 2024, Barry received the Cassie Lacost Memorial Award for “Self-Advocate of the Year.”

Outside of his advocacy, Barry found happiness in the simple things—camping, fishing, mowing the lawn, and spending time on the farm. He had a deep love for music and was rarely seen without his radio. One of his favorite songs, My Lighthouse, captured his joyful spirit, often seen clapping along with a smile that lit up the room.

Above all, Barry’s life was a reflection of Jesus’ love. He reminded those around him of their worth as children of God and left behind a legacy of joy, inclusion, and unwavering faith.
It was our privilege to walk beside his community in their time of mourning. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were there not just as visitors, but as quiet companions in grief—sharing the comfort of God’s presence through every gentle nudge and wagging tail.

On Thursday, April 10, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) group from Trinity Lutheran Church in Indio, California, gathered for their regular meeting—but this time with some very special guests.

Joining via Zoom were LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Micah (Light of the Valley - Elk Grove, California) with handler Marilyn Hunter, Rahab (St. Andrews - Stockton, California) and her handler Bobby Moore, and Zechariah (First Good Shepherd - Las Vegas, Nevada) alongside handler Jennifer Pollock. The group was delighted to not only hear from the Top Dogs but also see the comfort dogs in action on screen.

The LWML members learned about the Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry—how the dogs are carefully trained, placed in LCMS congregations, and serve as a bridge for outreach and compassion in local communities. The discussion covered their roles in local visits, emergency response sites, and national crisis deployments.

As stories unfolded, the impact of the ministry came to life. The handlers shared deeply moving moments: visiting military bases to support chaplains and encourage service members to open up; sitting in District Attorney’s offices after traumatic cases; offering comfort to grieving families and first responders after tragic events, including the death of a student in a car accident and the loss of a police officer in the line of duty.

Throughout the session, the comfort dogs watched the faces of the participants, seemingly sensing the emotions in the room. Questions flowed freely, and hearts were touched. By the end of the visit, both people and the comfort dogs alike were truly blessed by this special time of connection and ministry.

One particularly poignant moment was with Jordan’s girlfriend, who visited the dogs several times throughout the day. She sat silently beside them, letting their presence and affection speak what words could not.

Responding to Devastation in Valparaiso, IN

On Sunday, March 30, the town of Valparaiso, Indiana, was struck by 90 mph straight-line winds that toppled 110 utility poles, tore through rooftops, downed trees, and left residents without power for days. In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) was contacted by Immanuel and Christ Lutheran Churches to aid their communities.

Another stop brought the team to the home of a single mom and piano teacher, whose studio had been rendered inaccessible by three large uprooted spruce trees. Unable to afford help, she prayed for a miracle. Through a recommendation from one of her student’s parents, she found LCC. Within hours, the trees and root balls were gone, her yard cleaned and raked, and a cross was cut into the stump of one of the trees. Moved to tears, she said, “This cross will always remind me to trust God to provide for my needs and that He sent angels here to take care of me.”

Rebuilding in Tryon, North Carolina

Farther south, another team served at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, NC, still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Though the congregation had hoped to return to their sanctuary by Easter, there remains much to be done.

Restoring a Beloved Camp in Linville, NC

Meanwhile, a small but determined team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL traveled to Camp Linn Haven in Linville, NC. The LCMS summer camp sustained extensive damage to its chapel, kitchen, main hall, 18 cabins, and bridge due to Hurricane Helene.

Volunteers assisted with hanging drywall, repairing siding, staining, painting, and general storm cleanup. Although there’s more work to be done, their efforts made meaningful progress in preparing the camp for future campers and ensuring the facility remains a safe and joyful space for all.

Gratitude for Hands that Serve

Lutheran Church Charities extends heartfelt thanks to the many LERT volunteers who offered their time, talent, and compassion in these recent deployments:

• Cross, Yorkville IL: Clay and Linda Arnold; Daeson Blue; Chris Coulombe; Heather Fiala; John Goettsch; Carrie Howard
• Bethany, Naperville: David, Gretchen, and Isabel Brouch; Alex Clasen; Pastor Seth Clemmer; Tye, Linda, Henry, and Ken Fox; Beth Hahn; James and Susan Jablonsky; Grace Ryan; Judy and Nathan Teske
• Good Shepherd, Elgin: David Vollrath
• Immanuel, Palatine: Chris Johnson
• St. Peter, Gilberts: Aleis Vasa
  
  

This team truly enjoyed the hospitality shown to them by the congregations of Trinity, Tryon and Mt. Pisgah, Hendersonville and will continue to hold both congregations in their prayers.

The Southeastern District has continued opportunities to serve at several locations in North Carolina. Please consider volunteering your time and talents to help those in need recover from Hurricane Helene.

How You Can HelpLERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

Last Wednesday, the Utica (NE) community gathered to honor the life of Jordan Ortmeier, a beloved teacher whose impact will forever be felt. In the wake of his passing, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Eden (Peace - Columbus, Nebraska), Keren (Immanuel - Ellsworth, Kansas), Meshach (Peace - Grand Island, Nebraska), Nicodemus (The Rock - Seward, Nebraska), and Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska) were present at Centennial High School, offering comfort and solace to students and staff in their time of grief.

The gentle presence of the Comfort Dogs provided a sense of peace and companionship, reminding all that they were not alone in their sorrow. We hope, in some small way, our dogs were able to ease the weight of heavy hearts and bring comfort during this difficult time.

As we reflect on Jordan's passion for teaching and the joy he brought to countless lives, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support this community through the Comfort Dog Ministry. With hope, we pray that the journey to healing continues for all who mourn as we honor his lasting legacy.

The homeowner, deeply moved by the volunteers’ efforts, shared how the Lord had watched over his family during the storm. With heartfelt gratitude, he thanked the team for their hard work and compassion.

Through their service, these LERT volunteers embodied Christ’s love in action, bringing physical relief and spiritual encouragement to those in need. We continue to pray for all affected by these storms and for the dedicated volunteers who answered the call to serve.

Elsewhere in the U.S., a team of 20 LCC LERT volunteers, mostly from Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville, IL, is deployed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, N.C. They are helping to rebuild the church after massive flooding from Hurricane Helene.

The Trinity congregation hopes to return to their building in time for Easter Sunday. On the first day of work, the team helped clear the crawl space, remove floor tiles, build shelves, and paint bathrooms. A few of the team members (pictured at right) dug a trench to help lay pipes to divert water. They will be working hard to help Trinity reach it goal of worshipping on Resurrection Day!

In another part of the Tarheel State, a team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, (pictured below) is serving at Camp Linn Haven, N.C. They are also helping with rebuilding after Hurricane Helene destruction, doing drywalling, siding, staining, and cleanup. They are making progress to restore the camp for future guests.

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.

On March 19th, LCC Comfort Dogs Emma, Hannah, and Michael (LCC Staff) visited the staff at the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) in downtown Chicago, IL. The NIJC is committed to defending and establishing the legal rights of immigrants, regardless of their background. With a dedicated team of about 30 staff members in their downtown office, the center has been under significant pressure, dealing with a high volume of cases, many of which involve human trafficking.

The work environment is high-stress, especially for the young, passionate staff who are navigating complex legal issues on behalf of their clients. In addition to the challenges of their work, they also face personal uncertainties related to job stability and the impact on their families.

On that particular day, the staff had the opportunity to take a break and unwind with the comforting presence of the Comfort Dogs. Michael, Hannah, and Emma brought calm and emotional relief, helping the staff process their stress and anxiety. It was clear from the smiles that spread across their faces and the visible relaxation in their posture that the visit provided much-needed relief.

These dedicated young professionals are committed to supporting those who cannot advocate for themselves, and it was a privilege to offer them a moment of care and comfort in return. The staff expressed their heartfelt gratitude, sharing messages of thanks to the handlers and the Comfort Dogs for their thoughtful visit.

A Prayer for Healing and Hope
Dear God, we ask You to protect the minds of those who are dealing with thoughts of depression and uncertainty. Help them to see the beautiful plan You have for their lives. Let them know their worth, their value, and the hope that You provide. Break the silence of shame and bring them the courage to share their burdens. Guard their hearts from despair, and surround them with love and support.

We pray for Alma’s family, friends, teachers, and community. May they find strength and comfort in You. In their moments of grief, let them feel seen, supported, and deeply loved. Hold them gently in Your arms, Lord, as they navigate this loss.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” — Psalm 139:14

In Jesus’ name, Amen.