​When tragedy strikes, the calming presence of Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs can lift the heaviness of sorrow and grief. 

Last week, after a tragic shooting in Janesville, Wisconsin, took the lives of four people, including relatives of medical personnel, four LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams and a Human Care parish nurse visited the Oncology Unit and Emergency Department at Mercyhealth Hospital and Trauma Center to bring encouragement and hope in the midst of a stress-filled week.

Two days had passed since the hospital staff responded to the trauma, and the furry friendliness and wagging tails of LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Rejoice, Charity, Mary, and Samson were a welcome site for patients and staff.

Spiritual First Aid™ certified Parish Nurse Debbie Hammen from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Mequon, WI, worked alongside the K9 Comfort Dog Teams, talking with the hospital staff about coping with trauma and encouraging them to practice self-care and take time to pause when needed. The teams also brought along plush stuffy dogs to hand out to the medical teams. 

“They were extremely affected by the tragedy,” Hammen said. “It was heartwarming to be able to hear their stories and share their feelings. Those stuffed comfort dogs did a lot to bring smiles. Some were brought to tears as they petted the K-9 Comfort Dogs.”

As emotions were stirred, the mood of the building seemed to change.  

“It was hard not to notice the smiles the dogs brought to everyone’s face. But even the weight in the room was lifted,” said Melissa Ruff of Team Rejoice.

The Mercyhealth staff weren’t the only ones affected.

“It was lovely to be with the patients coming in for treatment. There were quite a few in need of support, and the dogs made their treatment a lot easier!” said Faith Larson, top dog for Rejoice Comfort Dog. “Once we entered the ER, it was a bit more chaotic, with people rushing around and louder noise, but the staff in that area were so thrilled to see the dogs! They instantly smiled and many expressed to me that they really needed a comfort dog visit today.”

The LCC group sensed that the care and encouragement brought that day would have a long-lasting impact.

“One of the nurses in the ER commented that she just realized that she hadn’t stop smiling since the dogs arrived,” said Dianne Moore with Mary Comfort Dog. “We visited patients receiving chemo, one having treatments for 11 years and another who was receiving her first treatment. It was such a pleasure to bring smiles and comfort to all we visited.”

LCC expresses thanks for the following K-9 Comfort Dog and Human Care teams who could serve in Janesville last week:

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry Team
Mary Comfort Dog of St. Paul Janesville, WI, with Tom and Dianne Moore
Rejoice Comfort Dog of St. Paul Janesville, WI, with Faith Larson and Melissa Ruff
Charity Comfort Dog of Brookfield Lutheran Brookfield, WI, with Gary Kilvinger and Lisa Kollmeyer
Samson Comfort Dog of Zion Marengo, IL, with Denise Anderson

Human Care
Parish Nurse Deb Hannen of Beautiful Savior Mequon, WI

​A few weeks ago, three young girls visiting their father in Wenatchee, WA, tragically never returned home. Their father—now on the run—is suspected in their disappearance and presumed deaths. As the community continues to search for answers, the sorrow and shock remain deep.

Last Friday, a vigil was held to honor the memory of the girls and to support their heartbroken mother. Motivated by compassion and guided by faith, the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) team from Redeemer Lutheran in Spokane Valley traveled more than three hours to be present.

Bill Hager, HMC Ministry Coordinator, reflected on how God led his team for this visit: 

        As we arrived at the outdoor event, unsure of where we should set up, we began unloading the crosses
        from the truck with no contact person to guide us, In that moment of uncertainty, God moved.

        A volunteer—who we later learned was a family member of the girls—approached us, curious about  
       what we were doing. Once we shared our mission, she immediately knew where we needed to be. She
       guided us to a separate area where the public would be entering and leaving messages or gifts for the
       children. There, three tables stood—one for each girl.

        With love, we placed each heart and cross next to the dedicated tables. Throughout the evening, the
       community flowed through, pausing at each table. Many were moved to tears, grateful for something
       on which to write encouraging, personal messages. We watched as young classmates of the girls came
       forward—some shy, some bold—encouraged by their parents to write something meaningful. Adults
       added their voices too, their messages flowing with love, sorrow, and hope. The Holy Spirit, in God’s
       word and in our HMC team members, was present in that space—comforting, stirring, and healing.

       Unbeknownst to us at the time, the girls' mother and grandfather had also come through and quietly
       observed the community signing the hearts. Their silent presence made our offering feel all the more
       meaningful—proof that love and support were reaching them even in their most unimaginable pain.

      One heart had been created especially for the local police department—a symbol of gratitude for the
      officers burdened with the weight of this case. Initially, we struggled to find someone to receive it.  As
      the vigil neared its end, I felt a strong prompting to speak with a sergeant who had wandered near. That
      Spirit-led moment connected me to the incident command center, where I was introduced to the county
      sheriff. After hearing about our ministry and the purpose of the heart, he promised to deliver it to the
      police department's chaplain—ensuring that the law enforcement team would also be supported in
      prayer.

      That evening was filled with deep grief, but also with Christ’s presence. The HMC team was honored to
      join in this community’s heartbreak, and to offer a simple, powerful message: You are not alone. You are
​      loved. And even in darkness, God’s light shines through.

LOCAL NEWS COVERAGE:  "There was always so much feeling, so much life"

​A fire at a four-story apartment building in West Rogers Park, IL, earlier in June displaced multiple families who lost nearly everything. 

As some of them began the long journey of working with the American Red Cross, finding new housing, and getting their lives back, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs were there to bring support and comfort. 

Last weekend, K-9 Comfort Dogs In Training Bethesda and Eternity and LCC staff trainers Becky Kolzow and Sophia Apodaca visited families at a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) set up in Evanston, IL, for disaster support and relief services. MARCs serve as a one-stop shop for victims of disasters. 

The LCC team handed out K-9 Comfort Dog stuffies and spent time with four boys, ages 10 to 4, as their parents worked with the Red Cross and other agencies for assistance. 

“The people who came in looked lost, uncertain of what will happen next. But the volunteers welcomed them and helped them feel at ease,” said Apodaca, who communicated in Spanish with several families. 

Red Cross volunteers were very grateful for LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and trainers being there for the families and for them.

“LCC is a tremendous help in reaching out to the community, especially after a tragedy like this fire,” said Hank Welch of the Red Cross. “Families lost so much. To have the comfort dogs here for them brings an extra measure of hope in very trying circumstances.”

More than a month after an EF-3 tornado roared through St. Louis, Concordia Seminary is keeping an eye on the large oak trees that were damaged on its campus. 

Last week, Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response was on hand to help. 

Eight LCC Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) chainsaw volunteers from the Northern Illinois District joined Kris Schuldt, Missouri District Disaster Response Coordinator, and members from several other LCMS districts to remove dangerous “widow maker” limbs hanging over walking paths. 

LERT volunteers used a boom lift to access and remove the hanging limbs to make it safer to get across the tree-lined campus. In all, they safely felled and removed 22 trees, most of them around the chapel. 

They also assisted a staff member in disposing of a large, uprooted tree from her backyard. She greatly appreciated the willing hands and care offered to her.

Concordia Seminary President Rev. Dr. Thomas Eggers led morning devotions and prayers on the last day the LERT volunteers were working and thanked and blessed them for their hard work and service to the campus community. 

LCC Disaster Response and the Missouri District appreciate the following Northern Illinois District team members for their willingness to serve:
​
Immanuel Shobonier, IL – Fran Collier
St. John Wheaton, IL – Steve Chester, Byron Heidorn, Dave Mummah, Rich Wren
St. Peter Gilberts, IL – Steven Sporleder
Zion Ottawa, IL – Dave and Cindy Reif

All agreed that it is a blessing to serve with fellow LERT brothers and sisters in Christ.

Hurts still linger a year after two fires and flash flooding ravaged the mountain community of Ruidoso, New Mexico.

“Today, emotions are all over the map,” said Melissa Moody, a Village of Ruidoso employee who works with the town’s Parks and Recreation Department. “Some are still shellshocked and struggling. Some are ready to move on. Some accept the consequences of living here. But all of us are coming together to be a stronger community.”

On Tuesday, Ruidoso paused to remember, reflect, and celebrate resilience a year after the 2024 natural disasters that took the lives of two people, destroyed 1,400 homes, and burned more than 25,000 acres. Hundreds of people from the community came to the town’s Wingfield Park for an event with the theme “United By Loss, Defined By Grit.”

Lutheran Church Charities was on hand to bring HOPE TO THE HURTING with the handlers of K-9 Comfort Dog Persis (King of Kings - Glenpool, Oklahoma) and K-9 Comfort Dog Elijah (Our Redeemer - Wichita Falls, Texas). The teams worked in conjunction with Rev. Jason Rust of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Ruidoso and nine congregation members trained in Spiritual First Aid™.

The group also brought Hearts of Mercy & Compassion and crosses for the community to sign at the gathering. It marked the third visit by LCC staff and volunteers since the disaster — with previous trips focused on Disaster Response cleanup and Spiritual First Aid training.

“LCC is reaffirming its commitment to long-term care, healing, and hope for the people of Ruidoso,” said LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer. “In the midst of despair and loss, we want this community to find the comfort, strength, and hope need for healing. LCC will continue to bring prayer, Scripture, and resources for Ruidoso and Shepherd of the Hills.

The day the South Fork Fire broke out, Melissa Moody didn’t think much of it. Fires happen in the New Mexico mountains from time to time.

When her boss called and told her to join the Emergency Operations Center, she delayed. She had to finish doing payroll.

Her boss called again, ordering her to the EOC, which had to evacuate three times as the wildfire spread.

In the days and weeks that followed, Moody operated Ruidoso’s mobile kitchen, feeding dozens of families, then a few hundred, and eventually 800 people three meals a day. Seven days a week for nearly a month.

“Those weeks are a blur,” Moody said while preparing for the remembrance event. “I didn’t see my family for three weeks.”

Ruidoso remembers, though.

As K-9 Comfort Dog teams for Persis and Elijah walked downtown the morning before the community event, shopkeepers and residents reflected on the fear and anxiety they felt during mandatory evacuations, subsequent flooding after the fires, and the devastation that was left behind. The mountains around the town still show treeless burn scars of where they fire raged.

“Encouragement is needed here.”

“Thank you for coming.”

“We’re glad you came.”

T-shirt vendors. Bar owners. Restaurant wait staff. All expressed a gratitude that people outside the community care and want to help.

Back at Wingfield Park, Moody listens as Rev. Singer shares a message of hope and spiritual encouragement with the community.

As a Village of Ruidoso admin who is back to selling fishing permits for the Parks & Rec Department, she sees something else.

“We’re going to be stronger because of this,” she said, looking over the crowd. “People still need help. They need support with finances and the essentials. But now they know that people care — and help is available. Your group is a big part of that.”

In the small town of Chatham, Illinois, healing continues after an unthinkable tragedy struck on April 28, when a vehicle crashed into the YNOT Outdoors Summer and After School Camp. The devastating incident claimed the lives of five young children, shaking the entire community to its core—from families and children to educators, first responders, and local residents.

In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities responded swiftly, sending teams from its K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) to provide solace, presence, and the comfort of Christ during a time of overwhelming grief.

Last week, as the children of YNOT Camp returned for the first time to the building where the tragedy occurred, the Comfort Dog teams were there once again—ready to support, listen, and simply be present.

A Healing Return to YNOT
Roughly 70 children were welcomed back with wagging tails and open arms. Handlers and Comfort Dogs arrived on-site Wednesday and Thursday, June 11 and 12, between 3:00 and 5:30 p.m., to coincide with afternoon programming. This visit was specifically requested by Alison Loftus of YNOT Outdoors, recognizing the potential emotional difficulty for the children revisiting the site of the traumatic event.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Dinah (Trinity - Auburn, Illinois), Michael (LCC Staff), Noah (Timothy - St. Louis, Missouri), Tabby (St. Paul’s - Des Peres, Missouri), and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Britta (LCC Staff) were accompanied by a team of compassionate handlers.

Roxy, a handler reflected: “Today’s visit was well received. The children had a full day of off-site activities, and when they returned, the Comfort Dogs were waiting. The resilience of these children is amazing.” Roxy shared that Dinah Comfort Dog was exhausted from all the attention but kept her tail wagging the entire time. “Some children even did a survey to find which dog had the softest ears,” she added with a smile.

Many children shared stories about their own pets, asked questions about the dogs, and collected the special “calling cards” each Comfort Dog carries. One child even asked for an extra card for her sister, who couldn't attend.

“These children are resilient,” said another volunteer. “They’re coping, talking, laughing, and connecting. It’s humbling to be a part of their healing process.”

A Community Embraced
For Chatham, the return of the LCC Comfort Dogs was a symbol of continued presence, love, and faith. The teams didn’t just show up—they remembered, they listened, and they returned when it mattered most.

As the children of YNOT Outdoors slowly step back into routines shaped by both joy and sorrow, they are surrounded by a community—and by four-legged friends—who remind them they are not alone.

A Dream Fulfilled, A Life Sacrificed
All Krystal Rivera ever wanted was to be a police officer. That dream came true in 2021 when she was sworn into the Chicago Police Department. Officer Rivera quickly became a beloved presence in the 6th District, known for her dedication, her heart, and her deep love for her 10-year-old daughter, Bella.

On June 5, 2025, Officer Rivera was killed in the line of duty during a foot pursuit in Chatham. She had served with distinction for four years. Her tragic death sent waves of sorrow through her fellow officers, her family, and the wider community she served so faithfully.

A Community in Mourning, United in Prayer
Hundreds gathered outside the Gresham District police station on Wednesday, June 11, for a solemn prayer vigil to honor Officer Rivera’s memory. Friends, family, and community members stood side-by-side with dozens of Chicago police officers—some in uniform, others wearing shirts bearing Rivera’s image. CPD Chaplain Rev. Kimberly Lewis-Davis encouraged all present to lean into their faith for healing and strength.

A Ministry of Presence: LCC Offers Support and Hope 
Among the mourners was Lutheran Church Charities, whose compassionate presence brought hope and spiritual care to both officers and grieving family members. Responding to a request from the Chicago Police Department, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams attended roll call for the officers of the 6th District and stood with the community at the vigil.

Rev. Chris Singer, LCC President and CEO, was present alongside dedicated teams that included LCC Comfort Dogs Gethsemane & Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake - IL), Michael (LCC Staff), and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Nigel (LCC Staff), each accompanied by their trained handlers.

Also in attendance was Tim Laabs, Project Manager for Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, who helped facilitate the meaningful tribute with the Heart and Cross memorials. Together, this team provided comfort through their calm presence, empathetic conversations, and unwavering support, reminding all who gathered that they were not alone in their grief.

One of the most profound moments came from young Bella, Officer Rivera's daughter. Initially hesitant to join others, she lit up when she saw the dogs. Jeanette, one of the handlers, shared that Bella—still reeling from celebrating her birthday just days after her mother’s passing—found a moment of joy as she bonded with Gethsemane. “She is hurting and has a long road ahead,” Jeanette said, “but she smiled and enjoyed the moment. One of the officers stated that the dogs made all the difference today for Bella. God is good!”

Handlers stayed close to the family, walking with them through grief. Jenni shared, “I was surprised at the level of access we had to Krystal’s daughter. She lit up when she met our sweet dogs. That connection—that was God.” She also spoke with Officer Rivera’s friends and coworkers, recognizing the enduring support system that would surround Bella.

Hearts of Mercy, Messages of Love
At the heart of the vigil—both literally and figuratively—stood the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion. Tim Laabs brought one heart and cross for public messages and another to be gifted to Officer Rivera’s family.
Messages like “I will forever miss your good mornings and talking about our girls,” and “Powerpuffs for life” reflected the deep affection and camaraderie Rivera inspired. Other notes offered encouragement: “The pain you feel is all the love you poured into Krystal,” and “May God lift you.”

The second heart, passed among Rivera’s fellow officers, bore signatures and sentiments like “We love you and we will always miss you!” and “Great officer—and a BETTER friend.” When complete, the heart was presented to the family by CPD Commander Michael Tate and LCC President Chris Singer. “You are in our hearts and prayers as you grieve the loss of such a wonderful daughter, mom, and officer,” Singer said.

Answering the Call to Bring Hope for the Hurting
Each handler present shared how divine timing and meaningful conversations unfolded throughout the day. Danielle reflected, “It isn’t always about the experiences you expect—it’s the connections that happen when you show up.” Valerie added, “To be there to love on those who knew and loved Officer Rivera was a blessing.”

Jim, another handler, summed it up best:
“What I experienced yesterday was one of God’s miracles. The love, compassion, and mercy displayed by everyone present could not have occurred without divine intervention. The Comfort Dogs brought mercy. The officers brought love. And the community brought honor. It was a beautiful thing to behold.”

In the face of unspeakable grief, the ministry of Lutheran Church Charities offered a tangible expression of God's comfort. Through Comfort Dogs, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, and the quiet faith of those present, they helped carry a community through a moment of heartbreak—reminding all that love, indeed, still lives.

Support the ongoing ministry of Lutheran Church Charities as we bring hope and healing to first responders, families, and communities in crisis. Together, we can be a light in the darkest moments.

Judy Devlin believes in the value of Lutheran Church Charities’ K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry. She’s seen LCC handlers and golden retrievers bring comfort and encouragement in schools and communities in the most tragic of circumstances.

Originally from Winnetka, Illinois, she recalls LCC’s outreach to neighboring Highland Park after the July 4 parade shooting in 2022.

“When something that horrific happens, it touches everyone,” she said. “LCC and the comfort dogs bless everyone — and I’ll do anything I can to support them.”

Judy was among eight volunteers from across the Northern Illinois District — plus some non-Lutherans — who worked with LCC staff to pack swag bags for its biggest event of the year, the 2025 LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry National Conference, scheduled for mid-July.

The conference will attract more than 500 K-9 handlers, ministry partners, and churches in process for an LCC comfort dog for inspiration, training, and fellowship. This week’s packing party helps LCC get the bags for conference attendees ready well in advance.

Each bag contains the conference t-shirt, a journal, and other LCC K-9 Comfort Dog items as a thank you for attending the gathering.

Deb Mucha of Northbrook, Illinois, who has worked with Therapy Dogs International in the past, wanted to volunteer as a shirt folder and packer because she wants the K-9 handlers to have a meaningful experience.

“I helped at the last conference and saw how much inspiration and joy the handlers get from one another and LCC,” she said. “I just want to support them so they can help bring comfort to people where they live.”

As the conference approaches, the dedication of volunteers like Judy and Deb reflects the heart of the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry — service rooted in compassion, faith, and community. Their behind-the-scenes efforts ensure that every attendee feels welcomed, valued, and equipped to continue the ministry’s mission of bringing peace and presence in times of need. Whether through a wagging tail or a packed swag bag, every act of support helps carry comfort where it’s needed most.

Want to make a difference behind the scenes?
Whether you have a heart for helping, time to give, or specific skills to share, there are many ways you can serve. Explore volunteer opportunities and help further LCC’s mission of bringing comfort, hope, and healing to those who need it most.

Check out LCC Volunteer Opportunities and get involved today!

One year after the devastating South Fork Fire and flash floods that swept through Ruidoso, New Mexico, destroying over 1,400 homes and businesses, the community is preparing to gather in remembrance—and in strength.

As part of this special remembrance, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) will return to Ruidoso to stand in solidarity with a community they first served in 2024, reaffirming their commitment to long-term care, healing, and hope. LCC is honored to participate in the event with LCC Community Care Event.

"South Fork 2024 — United by Loss, Defined by Grit”
Tuesday, June 17 | 5:30–8:00 p.m. | Winfield Park, 300 Center St., Ruidoso, NM

This community-led remembrance event is a time to:

1. Lament the losses of homes, land, and livelihood
2. Honor the courageous efforts of neighbors helping neighbors
3. Celebrate resilience, unity, and the journey toward healing
   
   

Lutheran Church Charities will participate in the event, bringing all four of its core ministries:

1. LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry with Comfort Dogs Elijah  (Our Redeemer - Wichita Falls, Texas) and Persis (King of Kings - Glenpool, Oklahoma)
   
2. Disaster Response
3. Hearts of Mercy & Compassion
4. Human Care

LCC Care Teams will be on-site to offer emotional and spiritual support as the community reflects on its past and looks ahead with hope.

A Year Ago: LCC’s Immediate Response
In the aftermath of the disaster, LCC deployed teams to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, offering both practical assistance and emotional support. Their response included:

1. Chainsaw relief operations, removing fallen and hazardous trees from properties
   
2. Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training, helping local volunteers learn safe and effective disaster response techniques
3. Spiritual and emotional care, providing comfort rooted in the hope of Christ
   
   

That initial deployment was followed by a second, six-day mission in October, where LCC expanded their support with advanced training, additional fieldwork, and the introduction of Spiritual First Aid™, a biblically grounded model for addressing trauma and grief.

“Pastor Jason Rust of Shepherd of the Hills reached out and said, ‘We want to help our neighbors—but we don’t know how,’” recalled Rev. Chris Singer, LCC President and CEO. “We came to stand with them, train them, and remind them that healing is possible through Christ. And now, we return to remind them they are not forgotten.”

You Can Help Us Keep Showing UpL
CC’s mission is long-term. Our return to Ruidoso is just one example of how we continue to support communities long after headlines fade.

Donate today to help LCC bring ongoing relief, care, and Christ-centered hope to those still rebuilding.
Because remembering means returning—and healing happens when we walk together.