Over the years, countless Comfort Dog Ministry teams have quietly and faithfully answered a unique and tender call—visiting hospice patients in their final days.

One of our long-standing partners, Chrissy, a residential hospice chaplain, recently shared a deeply moving message with us. Her words are a testament to the power of presence, love, and the simple joy of a dog’s touch.

“My name is Chrissy, and I am a Hospice Chaplain. I, and my patients, have been blessed again and again by the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry. Over the years, I’ve turned to this ministry many times—because I know the difference it makes.

So many of my patients are elderly, disabled, or terminally ill. Many once had dogs they dearly loved, but they can no longer care for one. Your comfort dogs give them a precious chance to love—and be loved by—a dog once more.

There are few words to describe the look of joy that crosses a patient's face when a comfort dog walks through the door.

I recently visited a patient with one of your teams. After the visit, he quietly told me he had been struggling with depression, feeling hopeless. But that day, after spending time with the dog, he felt something different. He smiled and said, ‘Today, I feel happy. I feel like maybe these last days can still be good days.’

Thank you for answering the call to spread God’s love through these dogs. You have touched—and changed—so many lives.”

Rev. Dr. Allan R. Buss, President of the LCMS Northern Illinois District (pictured), extends his sincere gratitude to all Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) supporters who generously gave to help Jason, a website contractor for the District.
 
Because of your incredible compassion and generosity, Jason was able to receive the surgery and medical care he urgently needed. He is now on the path to healing and recovery.
 
Your prayers and support have made a powerful impact—demonstrating the mercy, compassion, and presence of Jesus Christ. Thank you for being a part of this testimony of love in action!

The Human Care team recently witnessed two beautiful stories of compassion in action—made possible through your generous support.

In West Dundee, IL, our team partnered with Vida Y Fe Church to support a newly connected family in our church community.
 
After the heartbreaking loss of their mother, a donor family chose to turn their sorrow into a powerful act of kindness. They gifted her cherished living room and bedroom furniture to a family in need. When the two families met, the moment was filled with emotion, faith, and connection.
 
The donors didn’t just give furniture—they offered heartfelt words of encouragement, creating a lasting bond that reflected the healing power of generosity and God's love.

In a separate act of service, the Human Care team partnered with Iglesia San Pablo in Aurora, IL, to provide essential household items to another family in need.
 
Through the generous donation from a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Palatine, IL, the family received a king-sized bed set—including mattress, box spring, and frame—along with four office chairs. Pictured are Elliot Flores, president of Iglesia San Pablo, and the donor who helped make this blessing possible.
 
Each story is a testimony to how your donations are more than just things—they are vessels of hope, comfort, and community. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ.

With deep gratitude, we celebrate the remarkable ministry of Deaconess Lori Wilbert and the countless lives she touched within the walls of Stateville Prison in Joliet, Illinois. Through Voice of Hope Ministry, Lori brought the love of Christ to those walking through some of life’s darkest valleys.
 
After more than four decades of faithful service, Lori retired from full-time ministry late last year. Her unwavering presence and compassion offered dignity, hope, and healing to men society often forgets.
 
Reflecting on her journey, Lori once wrote:
 
“When I started there in 1986 with Chaplain Bob Kramer, I was young at heart and open to whatever God was doing in my life. I’d like to think I still am—open to the work among individuals most of us don’t want to think about. Matthew 25 speaks eloquently about helping the homeless, naked, thirsty, hungry, and those in prison. We need to be in prison. The church goes to those who cannot come to us.”
 
Lori’s words are a powerful reminder of the Gospel’s call—and of the unique role she played in living it out.
 
Your prayers and financial support made this ministry possible. Because of your faithfulness, Lori was able to follow God’s call and serve those so often unseen. Thank you for standing with her—and with those she served—with such love and generosity.

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.