There are moments when God’s purpose becomes unmistakably clear—when place, time, and calling converge so precisely that there is no doubt He has ordered every step. The presentation of two Line of Duty Death Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) to the Arizona Department of Public Safety was one of those sacred moments.

Though it was never planned to coincide with the Best Practices in Ministry (BPM) Conference in Phoenix, the timing unfolded perfectly. What seemed unplanned was, in truth, divinely arranged. God aligned our presence with a moment that called for compassion, honor, and remembrance, reminding us that His timing is never accidental.

In early February, State Trooper and Paramedic Hunter R. Bennett and Pilot Robert B. Skankey answered a call marked by courage and service. Dispatched by the Arizona Department of Public Safety to assist officers confronting an armed suspect near Flagstaff, they provided critical aerial support in a dangerous situation. Tragically, the helicopter crashed during the mission, and both men lost their lives in the line of duty.

Just one week later, LCC staff, the HMC team, and K-9 Comfort Dog Team Persis (Christ the Redeemer - Tulsa, OK) had the privilege of presenting Hearts of Mercy in honor of these fallen heroes. The first day of the BPM conference became a powerful opportunity for remembrance, as a fundraiser for the officers’ families was being held at headquarters. Hundreds gathered—colleagues, friends, and community members—and one by one they filled the hearts with handwritten messages of love, gratitude, and comfort.

The officers of the Arizona Department of Public Safety expressed deep appreciation for our presence. Yet it was clear to us: we were meant to be there. Not by chance. Not by coincidence. But by God’s design.
In the midst of heartbreaking loss, His presence was evident. In the weight of grief, His work was unfolding. And through acts of remembrance and mercy, hope quietly took root—assuring us that even in sorrow, we are never alone.

This week, the Gwinnett County community and law enforcement family were shaken by a tragic line-of-duty death that has reverberated across North Georgia and beyond.

On Sunday morning, Officer Pradeep Tamang, 25, of the Gwinnett County Police Department was killed while responding to a fraud-related call at a hotel near Stone Mountain. Another officer, Cpl. David Reed, was seriously wounded in the same shooting and has since undergone surgery and is reported to be recovering.

A nearby church, Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens, GA, was ready to act.  Having just been trained in Spiritual First Aid in 2025, they understand the power of responding quickly, with compassion.  Trinity volunteers, working alongside Hearts of Mercy & Compassion staff, delivered a Heart of Mercy on a cross, just in front of Officer Tamang’s squad car.  Surrounded by all the tributes, flowers and memorabilia, the heart reads, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

This outreach from Athens goes back a step further.  An HMC volunteer cross builder in Louisville, KY, had just dropped off those crosses to Trinity just a couple of months prior, to be used in emergency responses just like this.  The depth of time, love and commitment this response shows can lift those who shoulder grief — reminding them that in moments of darkness, God’s love still shines brightly.

As Officer Tamang is laid to rest and Cpl. Reed continues his recovery, the thoughts and prayers of countless people remain with their families, the Gwinnett County Police Department, and everyone touched by these events.

LCC Cares Ministry recently received a request to send a Care Team to support the staff and residents of Transformation Village in Asheville, North Carolina. Last year, the state was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene, prompting Lutheran Church Charities to deploy Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT), Care Teams, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams to walk alongside communities during a time of crisis. During that deployment, team members spent time with residents at Transformation Village, a transitional living community serving unhoused women and children.

Today, the staff and residents continue to navigate the long-term effects of flooding, challenging life circumstances that have led to homelessness, and the grief surrounding the loss of a former resident. Over the weekend, an LCC Care Team returned to be present with them, as well as with the staff and residents of Safe Haven, the on-campus emergency shelter that serves as a pathway into Transformation Village.

The Care Team included Parish Nurse Heidi Thin (Faith Lutheran Church – Sussex, WI), Dawn Werner (Holy Cross Lutheran Church – Collinsville, IL), Sue Beck (Hearts of Mercy & Compassion team member from Brookfield Lutheran Church – Brookfield, WI), and Jessica Ganzen (Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry Coordinator for the HMC Team at Faith Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI).

Through the use of Spiritual First Aid, the team created safe and compassionate spaces where staff and residents could share their stories, process their experiences, and receive caring support, prayer, and scripture to offer encouragement as they continue their journey toward healing. Three Hearts of Mercy & Compassion were presented during the visit: the first heart was given to Transformation Village, the second heart was given to Wendy, a staff member who is grieving the recent loss of her mother, and the third heart was given to the staff at Safe Haven, the on-campus emergency shelter for Transformation Village.
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Reflecting on the visit, Jessica said, “God sure is on the move in this place.” Sue Beck, an HMC team member from Brookfield Lutheran Church in Wisconsin, also shared how grateful she was to serve and how blessed she was by the experience.

LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer shared remarks during the ceremony: “My heart breaks for each and every one of you that faces this Christmas in a way that you never thought you would have to. We are heartbroken with you. We grieve with you. … The One that came in the manger made sure that something was done about that — that death wouldn’t have the final word. I pray that each and every one of you would receive that gift anew this Christmas, even in the midst of grief. I know that any of your anger, any of your sadness, all the emotion, the manger is big enough to contain it.”

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Martha (Bethany, Austin) and Persis (Christ The Redeemer, Tulsa) and their handlers stood by for all those who needed hugs and a moment to be still. LCC staff and ministry partners were with them to listen, for conversation, or to pray.

“God was present in the midst of such sorrow,” one volunteer shared. “Loved ones proudly stood by the crosses, each cross naming their loved one, whom they will never forget and for whom they grieve deeply. Yet, as they move on from the Garden, they will take the Heart of Mercy & Compassion with them.” 

Each HMC has the verse Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

For years to come, that heart gift will remind them of God’s promise — and for the support from so many who will remember their lost loved one.

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.

On Mother’s Day, a devastating fire tore through the Highland Court Apartments in Milwaukee, WI, claiming the lives of five residents and displacing nearly 100 more. In the aftermath of this tragedy, amid the rubble and grief, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) teams stepped in—not only to honor the lives lost but to bring hope and healing to the survivors.

On Memorial Day, the community gathered for a heartfelt vigil to remember the victims. Led by Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal and volunteer John Draper, the event aimed to reflect not only on national sacrifices but also on the personal, painful losses still unfolding in the shelter housing the displaced residents.

Recognizing the emotional toll, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office extended a hand of compassion—bringing lunch and inviting the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs to join the vigil. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), Samaria (Shepherd of the Hills - Greenville, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois), and Comfort Dog in Training Gethsemane with their dedicated volunteer handlers offered their calming presence to those overwhelmed by grief and trauma. The comfort dogs didn’t just comfort—they opened hearts. Survivors, many still reeling from the fire, found moments of peace and courage in their company.

What emerged was not just sorrow, but resilience. Residents opened up about the emotional bond they shared with their 90-year-old landlord, who had given many of them a second chance at housing and stood with them as flames consumed their homes. Their grief was not just for their belongings or lost neighbors, but also for the woman who had become family.

Hearts of Mercy for Hurting Souls
Recalling the impact the HMC ministry had on the community during a previous engagement in Waukesha, WI—following the 2021 Christmas Parade attack—Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal requested their presence in Milwaukee.

Debbie Endres, HMC Ministry Coordinator from Brookfield Lutheran, WI, and team member Mary Stafford-Nunez brought five Hearts of Mercy to honor each life lost. Survivors signed the hearts with heartfelt tributes—one remembering a man as “such a joy, always checking on people.” These symbolic blue hearts, filled with handwritten memories and love, will be presented to the families of the victims.

The simple yet profound act of sharing a memory and placing it on a heart brought comfort. It allowed residents to grieve together and begin healing—one name, one memory at a time.

A Ministry of Presence, A Message of Hope
LCC's presence reminded everyone that healing begins with being seen, heard, and loved. The Red Cross volunteers, themselves exhausted from weeks of support, welcomed the encouragement and care. As one K-9 handler observed, "They were so happy to have the comfort of the dogs and listening ears."

Though many survivors are still struggling to find stable housing and rebuild their lives, the spirit of hope remains strong. Their courage, faith, and gratitude were visible in every story shared, every tear shed, and every embrace exchanged with a gentle dog or a compassionate volunteer.

Join Us in Spreading Comfort and Compassion
Your support helps LCC Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion teams continue to respond in times of crisis.

Together, we can continue to honor the lost, comfort the hurting, and bring hope where it’s needed most.

A few weeks ago, the quiet community of Fredonia, WI, found itself in the national spotlight when a 38-hour standoff with an armed and barricaded individual unfolded in a residential neighborhood. The incident tested the resilience of the town, locking down homes and unsettling families as law enforcement and first responders worked with patience, discipline, and care to bring the situation to a peaceful conclusion.

Thanks to the skillful and methodical response by first responders, no lives were lost and no injuries were reported—a remarkable outcome for a situation fraught with danger and uncertainty.

In the wake of this traumatic event, St. John Lutheran Church in Fredonia became a place of both action and healing. During the incident, the church served as a staging area for drone teams and first responders, offering space, shelter, and support. In the days following, it became a sanctuary once again—this time for spiritual and emotional healing. During Sunday worship, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs and Care Teams were present to help the community begin its journey toward recovery.

Recognizing the extraordinary effort and sacrifice of those involved, the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) ministry team from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton, WI, mobilized to say “thank you” in a meaningful way.

Honoring the Helpers
The HMC team visited three critical partners in the response effort, presenting hand-crafted Hearts of Mercy & Compassion as symbols of appreciation, prayer, and encouragement.

Pastor Frisque closed the visit with a moving prayer, highlighting how the Fire Department’s peaceful resolution reflected God's mercy and justice. He drew powerful imagery from Scripture, likening the incident to biblical acts of deliverance—turning potential destruction into an opportunity for hope and healing.

A Prayer for First Responders
“We give You heartfelt thanks for the Fredonia Fire Department—for their courageous service, wise assistance, and steady hand... Through their effort, the suspect was drawn out, and no lives were lost. We see in this moment a reflection of Your mercy and justice.”
— Excerpt from Pastor Frisque’s prayer

A Grateful Community
The gratitude shared by Pastor Frisque, the Sheriff's Office, and the Fire Department was humbling and heartfelt. Their humility, strength, and grace stood as a testimony to the power of community and faith in difficult times.
To all those who serve--in ministry, law enforcement, fire departments, and every role in between—thank you. Your work does not go unnoticed. We lift you in prayer and stand with you in gratitude.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9

When crisis strikes, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion is there—bringing hope, healing, and heartfelt thanks to those who serve and suffer.

Whether it's honoring first responders, comforting grieving families, or supporting communities in distress, your gift makes a difference. Each handcrafted heart is a symbol of God’s love and presence in times of hardship.

Donate today and help us continue to deliver compassion, prayer, and encouragement wherever it’s needed most. Every dollar helps us lift hearts, one act of mercy at a time.

Students from Mt. Calvary Lutheran School’s Junior Honor Society, located in Diamond Bar, CA, recently organized a heartfelt donation drive to honor the brave firefighters who responded to the wildfires earlier this year. Through their efforts and the support of the community, the students raised enough funds to provide care packages to five local fire stations.

Each station received a basket filled with practical items like gum and ChapStick, along with a special treat—Crumbl cookies—to show appreciation for the firefighters’ hard work and dedication. In addition to the goodies, the students also presented each firehouse with a Heart of Mercy & Compassion—a hand-painted wooden heart symbolizing gratitude, hope, and encouragement.

When the middle schoolers delivered the items, they shared a simple yet powerful message: “Thank you for what you did and what you continue to do.” The firefighters were pleasantly surprised and visibly moved by the thoughtful gifts and personal connection.

Rev. Chris Singer spoke at a chapel service at Mt. Calvary Lutheran School following the Pacific Southwest District–LCMS 2023-2024 "Hearts for Jesus" project, which featured support for Lutheran Church Charities. Inspired by that earlier visit, 7th grade homeroom teacher Joseph Siekmann—a former confirmation student of Rev. Singer—proposed an idea to thank local firefighters who had responded to past wildfires.

The students, led by Siekmann, thought of this initiative as a way to recognize the difficult work their first responders endured earlier this year. Their actions are a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have when they come together with purpose and compassion. The community is proud of these students for their leadership, generosity, and kind hearts.

Redeemer Lutheran Church’s HMC (Hearts of Mercy & Compassion) team in Spokane Valley, WA, has been actively reaching out to those experiencing grief, offering meaningful support through heartfelt gestures.