At LCC, we are incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion of our volunteers who work tirelessly to make a difference in their local communities. Our HMC Affiliate Churches are thriving with volunteers who are deeply committed to the ministry. We recently had the opportunity to ask them why they chose to be a part of the HMC ministry and what it means to them. Their heartfelt responses truly reflect the spirit of compassion and service that defines our organization. We are blessed to have such dedicated individuals supporting our mission, and we look forward to continuing to work together to bring hope and support to those in need. Below are the responses we received:
LCC Provides Spiritual Resources to Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Memorial Site in Lahaina, Maui4/17/2024
Thank You to All Our Volunteers for Being the Heart and Soul of LCC's Hearts of Mercy & Compassion4/16/2024
April is National Volunteer Month. LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion staff work alongside volunteers daily. We’d like to recognize and thank those exceptional people who act in Christ’s name for this ministry. Volunteers are involved in many steps while crafting our Hearts and Crosses. For the hearts, a manufacturing volunteer utilizes a CNC water jet machine to cut the hearts to precise specifications. Then, many more volunteers sand and paint the hearts. For the crosses, the boards are painted, then cut, then painted again before the hardware is added to complete the construction. Because of our volunteers, we can keep our costs low and our production high so that we can respond to more events nationwide to bring God’s love to all. Jesus said, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12) Each heart and cross shows the love of a community that is present in times of need and the love of Jesus, which is eternal. Our affiliate churches are also always working to be ready to respond nationwide with crosses. Pictured are volunteers at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Janesville, Wisconsin, who recently built 13 crosses to be prepared for a national deployment! These five volunteers worked as a team to finish the crosses this past weekend. Their enthusiasm is evident in their commitment to this ministry. Thank you, St. Paul's! We are looking for churches who want to take part in this extraordinary outreach opportunity by partnering with LCC as an HMC affiliate. Your church is invited to become an affiliate today and see the impact LCC's Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry can make in your community! At LCC, we believe in spreading the love and hope of Jesus through our Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) Ministry. HMCs can be given to celebrate a victory, honor service, or simply as an expression of love or encouragement. Last year, 730 Hearts of Mercy & Compassion were gifted by LCC staff and our affiliate churches. These hearts were given for a variety of reasons – celebration, gratitude, encouragement, and comfort. As an affiliate of LCC's HMC Ministry, you would be able to bring hope and love to your community. Whether you're looking to provide comfort to those in need or simply spread the message of Jesus through a tangible gift, our HMC Ministry is the perfect way to make a difference. Join us in spreading the love and hope of Jesus through the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry. Become an affiliate today and see the impact it can make in your community.
Lutheran Church Charities now has 17 Hearts of Mercy & Compassion affiliates in 14 states. Click here to see the map. For more information about HMC, visit www.heartsmc.org.
A HEART OF MERCY & COMPASSION IN MEMORY OF LIEUTENANT TIMOTHY S. EVANS This week, the LCC staff responded to our community by gifting a Heart of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) to the Mount Prospect Fire Department in memory of Lieutenant Timothy S. Evans, who passed away unexpectedly on March 30. Lieutenant Evans worked in our community for 29 years as a firefighter/paramedic and will be sorely missed. The firefighters at the station house were very grateful for the HMC and offered to bring it to the visitation for the community to sign. Join us in honoring the first responders in our community and nationwide for their unwavering commitment and service. A HEART OF MERCY & COMPASSION FOR REVEREND RAY AND ALICE RAMSBURG IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR SERVICE
LCC THANKS HMC VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND SERVICE April recognizes all those who give their time and energy during National Volunteer Month. At LCC, we are proud to honor the 17 Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) Affiliate Churches for their dedication and service. These churches not only support their members but also extend their compassion to the community by preparing hearts and crosses for deployment. Join us in celebrating the inspiring work of one of our newest affiliates, Christ the Redeemer, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as they come together to build their first crosses for deployment. Together, we can make a difference and spread love and kindness wherever it is needed most. The HMC team introduced the crosses and the ministry as a whole, to the church last weekend. The pictures below show the crosses displayed around the church.
"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 Rockford, Illinois Last week, the city of Rockford, Illinois, faced moments of unimaginable shock, fear, suffering, and loss after two violent incidents struck this community.
We are so grateful to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams of Asher (Faith Lutheran - Lake Forest, Illinois), Eunice (LCC Staff), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), and Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois), for being there for the Rockford community. Sarah Sekki, LCC Director of Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, and Tim Laabs, LCC staff, brought four hearts and crosses to pay tribute to the four lives lost. The victims' names were inscribed on each heart, and prayers were lifted for strength and support. The solemn procession to the vigil site, with hearts and crosses in hand, symbolized a collective effort to uplift and remember. Witnessing the outpouring of flowers and silent contemplation at the foot of each cross was a poignant reminder of the impact of loss. When the vigil location was suddenly relocated, community members were the first ones to pick up the crosses and move them to the center of the vigil to ensure the names remained at the forefront, showcasing a deep commitment to honoring and cherishing the memories of those no longer with us. We pray that the presence of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion served as a reminder of the hope we find through Jesus Christ.
God asks us to love one another and carry each other’s burdens. We are thankful for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams that responded to be there for the Rockford community to love, support, and listen, always carrying Jesus with them. Jac-Cen-Del High School - Osgood, Indiana LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Claudia (Trinity - Toledo, Ohio), Dove (Peace - Fremont, Indiana), Magdalene (Cornerstone - Carmel, Indiana), and Naomi (Holy Cross - Indianapolis, Indiana), traveled to Jac-Cen-Del High School in Osgood, Indiana, to be with the students and staff who are mourning the loss of Carson Hughes who meant so much to this small community. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams spent two days at Jac-Cen-Del High School, middle school, and elementary school in Osgood at the request of Superintendent Sam Melton after their community faced the heartbreaking loss Carson Hughes, a senior at Jac-Cen-Del High School, was reported missing on Friday, March 15. After three emotional days of searching, police found his body at Versailles State Park. "Carson was a senior and honor roll student at the high school. Many remembered him for his infectious smile, kindness, and love for his family, friends, and faith. Carson’s passion was photography. His beautiful photos earned Carson much recognition and awards for his work, skill, and passion." (from Carson's Obituary) "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20) Community is important when we suffer loss as it helps us to process and heal. As LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams gathered around the hurting students and staff, Jesus was there with them, an anchor in the storm of grief and uncertainty. The handlers and ministry partners, with Claudia, Dove, Magdalene, and Naomi Comfort Dogs by their side, sat with the students, listening and comforting them. The students and staff signed the Heart of Mercy & Compassion for Carson with messages for his family. The students colored pictures of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in the coloring books, encouraging more conversation and smiles. Carson’s friends and classmates rotated between the Comfort Dogs, seeking their comforting touch and warmth. It was good to see smiles and the heaviness of grief ease from the young shoulders. The school has requested that the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs return to Jac-Cen-Del High School in May to continue to support the students in their grief. With the anticipation of prom, finals, and graduation, it may be difficult for the students, especially the seniors who will miss their classmate Carson. The teams of Claudia, Dove, Magdalene, and Naomi Comfort Dogs replied, “Here am I, send me” (Isaiah 6:8) and said they would return in May to be with the students and staff, strengthening the cherished connections already made. York Community School - Elmhurst, Illinois
We are thankful the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers could be there for the students and staff, walking alongside them in their grief.
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.
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! 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.
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