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In light of the tragic bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, and the recent stabbing attack in Rockford, Illinois, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion volunteers are uniting to BE THERE to provide support and comfort to the affected communities. Driven by their faith and compassionate spirit, these dedicated individuals are committed to being a source of solace and assistance for those in need. We are ready to BE THERE! Baltimore, Maryland  Rev. Dr. Pres. William Harmon of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Southeastern District and Deaconess Sally Hiller, District Disaster Response Coordinator of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Baltimore, have extended an invitation to LCC to bring our K-9 Comfort Dogs and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion to provide support and comfort to the community and to help those who have been deeply affected by the tragic event. Among the teams ready to respond is LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Kezia (Emmanuel - Baltimore, Maryland). Additional LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams stand by, prepared to offer their services whenever they are needed to assist the shocked and hurting community during this difficult time. Rockford, Illinois Pastor James McCoid of Christ The Rock Lutheran Church in Rockford, Illinois, extended an invitation to LCC to bring our K-9 Comfort Dogs to offer solace and support to the community in the wake of a senseless act of violence that killed four beloved members of the community on Wednesday.
Additionally, LCC's Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry (HMC) has placed four hearts and crosses to pay tribute to each victim and in encouragement for community members to sign and write messages to each of the victims' families, embodying the spirit of compassion and unity during this difficult time. We pray that the presence of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion will serve as a reminder that people across the nation love and support them, and that both communities would find solace in the presence of these comforting reminders of the hope we find through Jesus Christ.
Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities. Serving Together in the Comfort of Jesus!  LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Bring Support to Perry, Iowa, after Students Return from Spring Break3/26/2024
 "You have no idea how thankful we are that you are here and how much of an impact you have made on us.” These were the first words the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams of Eden (Peace - Columbus, Nebraska), Katie & Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois) heard as they stepped out of their cars to be there at Perry Elementary, Middle, and High Schools in Iowa last week. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by the school district to provide much-needed comfort and support to students and staff returning from spring break. “We cannot believe you are here again and would drive the distance to be here for us.” The teams heard this sentiment repeated often last week from students, staff, and community members. People often ask the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry team volunteers why they would travel so far to be there for a community in crisis. The answer is simple: Jesus. He leads this ministry to where we need to be, to love and walk alongside one another, all in the name of Jesus. The teams reflected their love for Jesus and the people of Perry by being there for them so they were not alone, providing them a safe place to feel loved, understood, seen, and heard. “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” (1 John 4:12)
"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8) As the handlers and ministry partners reflected on the power of prayer, they were reminded that God is in control, and we need to remember that and actively keep Perry in our prayers. We are incredibly thankful for your support, which makes it possible for us to BE THERE where we are needed most. Your donations are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people our dedicated teams of volunteers are able to help. The love, healing, and comfort we are able to provide are a direct result of your generosity.  Thank you for joining LCC in supporting our mission to aid the vulnerable in Haiti during these challenging times.
Thanks to your unwavering support, LCC has been able to make substantial donations for food and medicine to Mission Haiti. LCC is also working for the first time with Habitat for Children Ministries in collaboration with Rev. Cris Escher of Grace Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Rev. Escher currently serves as the Vice President of Habitat for Children Ministries, and the congregation at Grace Lutheran strongly supports this ministry’s efforts in Haiti. Please join us in our efforts to help save lives in Haiti. The violence and unrest in Haiti have left many innocent people injured, homeless, and in dire need of medical care, food, and shelter. We are working closely with our partners to safely provide essential assistance, including meals and medical supplies, to families amidst the challenges of volatility and violence. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope and material support to those in need. Every dollar counts and can make a huge difference in the lives of those impacted by this crisis. Thank you for your generosity and compassion. Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8)
School Bus Accident in Rushville, Illinois A horrible tragedy happened on Monday, March 11, in Rushville, Illinois, when a school bus with three preschool students collided with a truck on the way to school. The accident took the lives of five precious and loved people: David Coufal (72), Noah Driscoll (3), siblings Andrew Miller (3) and Maria Miller (5), and Angela Spiker (57). The small community of 3,000 was deeply affected by the loss of David, Noah, Andrew, Maria, and Angela. School was canceled until Thursday to give the students and staff time to process the shock of this tragedy.  The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was invited by Michelle Miller from Schuyler-Industry Schools to be at the schools on Thursday as the students and staff returned. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Dinah (Trinity - Auburn, Illinois), Esther & Jordan (Holy Cross - Collinsville, Illinois), and Noah (Timothy - St. Louis, Missouri) and their dedicated teams replied, "Here am I, send me," when they learned of this request to be there for the preschool, teachers, high school, and middle school students. Michelle and the Schuyler-Industry Schools staff were thankful that the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams would support the students and staff as they returned to school. They did not feel alone in their grief and sadness after losing three young preschool students, their bus driver, and the grandfather of one of the students. The over 2-hour drive to Rushville was not an easy one for the teams, as they faced numerous challenges along the way. Despite the storms, strong winds, and debris on the road, the teams persevered and made it to their destination safely. With God's protection, they were able to overcome adversity and arrive in Rushville ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead. Their resilience is a testament to their commitment and dedication to their mission to share the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.
The children and counselors found comfort in signing the LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, one for each person killed. They filled the hearts with messages of love and support. At the vigil, the night before school resumed, the Mayor said, “When a tragedy hits like this… we come out and help…we get stronger.” The students spent time coloring in the LCC K-9 Ministry Coloring Books that LCC sent for the students and staff. Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and the Comfort Dog cards for Dinah, Esther, Jordan, and Noah were left in the school office for the school to give out when needed.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams made many new friends during this visit, which significantly impacted all of the handlers since every person the team met was affected by this tragedy. At the end of the day, Michelle Miller became emotional as she told the handlers how much it meant to her that the teams were there. She said she had a wonderful day, which surprised her because she dreaded it so much. We hold in our hearts and prayers the families of those killed and for the community as they continue to grieve the loss of these five precious children of God. We pray they feel the hope, comfort, and strength only God can provide. Concordia University - Ann Arbor, Michigan
Loss of Two Elementary School Students in Texas
Support for the Family of Rev. Michael Scholz  On Saturday, March 16, five LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs, Esther & Jordan (Holy Cross - Collinsville, Illinois), Mercy (Our Savior - Louisville, Kentucky), Noah (Timothy - St. Louis, Missouri), Tabby (St. Paul’s - Des Peres, Missouri), and their teams were there to support the family of Rev. Michael Scholz with comfort, warmth, and love. Rev. Scholz and his wife, Amy, have been wonderful supporters of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry for many years. It was with much love that the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams wanted to be there for the Scholz family and their friends.
We are incredibly thankful for your support, which makes it possible for us to BE THERE where we are needed most. Your donations are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people our dedicated teams of volunteers are able to help during tragedies like these. The love, healing, and comfort we are able to provide are a direct result of your generosity.
From January 1 to March 8, 2024, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams have responded to 40 Emergency Site Visit requests. This translates to 40 instances where our dedicated teams offered their support and comfort within just 68 days. Last week, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their committed volunteers swiftly took action, extending their care in the wake of multiple tragedies. Their unwavering dedication to being present for those in distress and offering solace exemplifies the compassion and empathy that define our organization. We are immensely grateful for your generous support and the tireless efforts of our K-9 Comfort Dog teams and their invaluable contributions to those in need. Sterling, Virginia - Death of a TeacherThe community of Sterling, Virginia, suffered a loss last week when Monica Ashworth, a teacher at Rivers Bend Middle School, died two weeks after giving birth to her new baby boy. Monica was a loving mother, wife, daughter, teacher, coach, mentor, colleague, and friend. She grew up in Sterling, and after graduating from college, she became a teacher at Rivers Bend. Her heart was drawn to middle school students, and she devoted her life to serving them and others. Monica’s unexpected death has left a hole in the hearts of her students and colleagues at Rivers Bend Middle School.
On a cheerful note, one student caught the team's attention. She was intentionally combing Comfort Dog Solomon's fur and adding his fur to her black attire! She said, "I want a souvenir to take back with me!" Solomon was agreeable to making a generous furry donation!  The comfort dogs were a bridge to connection and healing, and their handlers were the reflection of Jesus' love, hope, and comfort in their actions, words, and presence. The Rivers Bend Middle School staff expressed their gratitude to the comfort dogs and the school for allowing the teams to visit. On more than one occasion, a student would look at the handlers and say, "Thank you for coming here." They truly felt seen, loved, and supported as they learned to overcome a tragic loss. The LCC K-9 Ministry teams are grateful for the opportunity to BE THERE as a part of their healing journey. We pray for Monica's baby boy, husband, family, and all who knew and loved her to take hold of God's strength, peace, and comfort as they move through each hour of their grief. Lemont, Illinois - Death of a Seventh-Grade Student  Last week, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs brought peace to Old Quarry Middle School in Lemont, Illinois, where they offered solace and compassion to staff and students during a difficult time. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and handlers were at Old Quarry Middle School throughout the week as the students and staff learned that 7th grader Joe Fornero was nearing the end of his precious life here on earth. Friday morning, although students had been aware that Joe was sick, the finality of learning that he had passed away was heartbreaking for all. Old Quarry Middle School supported the students and staff as they processed the news of Joe's passing. Joe's basketball teammates were told this by their coach, who shared the news in a gentle and comforting way. It was a quiet moment of reflection and sadness for them all. LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana) moved in and put her head gently on the knee of one of Joe's teammates while LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Michael (LCC Staff) leaned in to comfort the other students.  The rest of the school learned of Joe's passing and were given time to seek the comfort and calm they needed. On Friday, some of the students spent time with LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs Brutus (LCC Squad) and Nigel (LCC Staff) and LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana), Jeremiah and Michael (LCC Staff). Earlier in the week the students and staff also spent time with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in training Meshach and Shadrach. From Joseph's Obituary: Although Joey's life ended before we were ready, Joey was full of energy every moment of the day. He was always on the move from when he woke up until he went to bed. Joey had a deep passion for sports, a love for basketball, and an enthusiasm for baseball. Joey had an adventurous spirit that was shown by his nonstop, on-the-go, vibrant personality. There were times when he left the house when he woke up, found a group of friends in the neighborhood and did not come home until bedtime. In Joey's 13 years of life, he has made an impact on each and every person he met, whether it was in school, at a sport, or in the neighborhood. Joey had an unwavering kindness and spirit for life. Joey's kindness was infectious, which made it easy to love him and want to be with him. His family and friends will miss him dearly. This is not a goodbye, but a see you later, JoJo. We lift up in prayer Joey's family, friends, coaches, and teachers to feel and know the strength and comfort of God as they grieve his loss and the heartbreak they are experiencing.
Glen Ellyn, Illinois - Death of a High School Senior
We pray for God’s comfort, love, and healing for Lonnie’s parents, extended family, friends, coaches and teachers. Lenexa, Kansas - Visitation for 11-year-old Mckenna
We are incredibly thankful for your support, which makes it possible for us to BE THERE where we are needed most. Your donations are making a tangible difference in the lives of the people our dedicated teams of volunteers are able to help during tragedies like these. The love, healing, and comfort we are able to provide are a direct result of your generosity. Independence, Missouri - Visitation for Police Officer Cody Allen
Officer Allen's family's strong faith in Jesus resonated throughout the event, with one officer emphasizing the importance of faith in their daily duties. Traveling long distances to offer comfort, these dedicated teams shared God's love and hope with Officer Allen's loved ones, law enforcement colleagues, and the grieving community, receiving heartfelt gratitude from many for their presence during a time of immense sorrow.
The presence of HMCs at the ceremony not only honored Mack's life but also symbolized the hope and love found in Jesus, embodying the essence of mercy and compassion in times of grief and loss. They are grateful to be able to BE THERE with the community.
Last week, church members at Immanuel Lutheran Church lovingly packaged 100 hygiene kits. The LCC Human Care team shared the hygiene kits with Tabor Lutheran Church in Chicago, which is providing housing for immigrant families and ministering to unhoused people in their community. We are grateful for these church partnerships! We are better together!
A total of 31 individuals participated, representing various teams and churches across Illinois.
It is good to see how the disaster response ministry is continuing to grow with volunteers willing to share the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ in service to those suffering and in need.
On Tuesday, March 5, LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs Brutus, Nigel (LCC Staff), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois) and their veteran handlers spread love and compassion to sailors and recruits at the USO at Great Lakes Naval Station in North Chicago. The monthly visits of the Comfort Dogs bring joy and comfort to those serving our nation, especially to those experiencing being away from home for the first time. The Comfort Dogs and their teams always receive a warm welcome and are honored to bring love and support to our heroes.
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