Called to Comfort: Highlights from the 2025 LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry National Conference

Equipping Hearts, Encouraging Souls, and Strengthening the Mission

From July 16-18, 2025 in Northbrook, Illinois, became a gathering place for an extraordinary group of people — and an extraordinary number of dogs. Handlers and LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs from across the country came together for the 2025 LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry National Conference, a powerful and uplifting time of renewal, learning, and fellowship.

United by a Calling to Comfort

The conference theme, drawn from Isaiah 40:1 — “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God” — beautifully captured the heart of our mission. We are here because God has called us to bring His peace and presence to those who are hurting. Whether in times of tragedy or moments of quiet need, our teams offer compassion, hope, and a tangible reminder of God’s love.

This gathering isn’t just a logistical necessity — it’s a spiritual investment. It provides time for reflection, reconnection, and encouragement for the important ministry work taking place across the country every day.

A Ministry That Carries Weight — and Purpose

Ministry work can be deeply rewarding, but it is often emotionally and spiritually demanding. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry National Conference offers a space where volunteers and leaders can pause, breathe, and be reminded that they are not alone in the work.

Together, we celebrated the faithfulness of those who continue to serve with courage and compassion. We listened to stories of lives changed and hearts healed. We were humbled by the testimonies of people who encountered the love of Christ through this ministry. The impact is real. The comfort is needed. And God continues to work through these teams in powerful ways.

Hearts of Mercy & Compassion affiliates meet for training  

About a dozen Hearts of Mercy & Compassion affiliates gathered before the conference began to cover Cricut basics and how to wrap and prepare crosses for transport, led by HMC Director Sarah Sekki and HMC Project Manager Tim Laabs. The group also enjoyed team building exercises and HMC trivia challenges during the pre-conference session.

On Day 2, Sekki and Laabs led a group of 25 conference attendees through a breakout session called "An Inside Look at the Heart of Hearts of Mercy & Compassion," which explored the history and purpose of the ministry area. It highlighted the collaborative aspects and focused on the impact of heart- and cross-building and sharing.

The HMC group also enjoyed a team meal together.
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Inspiring Teaching and Worship

We are incredibly thankful for the exceptional keynote speakers who led us with wisdom, grace, and passion throughout the conference. Our deepest gratitude to:

• Rev. Chris Singer, LCC President/CEO
• Deb Burma, Christian author and speaker
• Jamie Aten & Kent Annan from Spiritual First Aid
• Rev. Michael Newman
• Laura Sandretti
• Chad Williams
• Zach Zehnder

Each speaker challenged and encouraged us to grow in our faith and deepen our commitment to serving others.

We are also grateful to Jennie Williamson, whose Spirit-filled worship led us to joy, hope, and heartfelt praise. These times of worship grounded us in God’s presence and prepared us for the work ahead.

A Grateful Sendoff 

As we return to our home communities, we do so with renewed strength and purpose. We are carrying more than just training notes and conference materials — we are bringing back a renewed passion for the ministry we are called to.

To every handler, ministry partner, and volunteer who attended: thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your servant hearts, and your unwavering obedience to God's call.

We pray that the connections made, the messages shared, and the worship experienced will continue to inspire and equip you in the months ahead.

Lord, continue to bless this ministry. Strengthen our teams. Fill our hearts. And use us to bring Your comfort wherever You lead us.

We are here to serve.
We are here to love.
We are here because of You.

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