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.
Last week, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their committed teams of volunteers sprang into action, offering their support and comfort in the face of multiple tragedies. Recognizing the importance of being present for those suffering and in need, these compassionate teams stood ready to provide solace and care wherever it was needed. Independence, Missouri - Tragic Death of Police Officer and a Civil Process Server Last week, heartbreak struck Independence, Missouri, when Drexel Mack, a Civil Process Server, and Independence Police Officer Cody Allen were shot and killed, and two police officers were wounded while serving their community. This devastating event has left the community in shock and mourning.
Burnsville, Minnesota - Memorial Service for Three First Responders Killed in the Line of Duty
We thank Gideon Comfort Dog and his team for being present at various vigils and prayer gatherings and handling two shifts a day at the city hall memorial over these past ten days. We're also grateful to LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams Charity, Hagar, Mary, and Tobias for providing additional support by traveling to the memorial service. Pam from Team Gideon said, "When I signed on to this thing called LCC K-9 Ministries, I had no idea that I would acquire new 'family' members, people we can turn to in good times and in bad." In the face of darkness, these bonds serve as a reminder of the power of community and the profound impact of compassion and presence in times of need. We continue to pray for the community, the colleagues, friends, and beloved family of these first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community. May God surround each person who is grieving with His love and comfort. "May the Lord answer you when you are in distress…May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support." (Psalm 20:1-5) East Dundee, Illinois - Sudden Death of a Beloved Music Teacher
Churchville Middle School in Elmhurst, Illinois - Sudden Death of Eighth-Grade Student
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.
It was an honor for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry to be invited to attend the Nebraska Association of Women Police & First Responders Conference in Omaha last week. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Eden (Peace - Columbus, Nebraska), Joanna (Christ Lincoln - Lincoln, Nebraska), Katie & Phinehas (Trinity - Fremont, Nebraska), Priscilla (Trinity - Lincoln, Nebraska), and their teams were blessed to be there to offer solace and support to attendees navigating heavy topics surrounding trauma and suicide. Lutheran Church Charities prepared and sent Hearts of Mercy & Compassion for the police officers and firefighters attending the conference to show support, encouragement, and appreciation for all they do for the community, acknowledging their sacrifices and the daily challenges and heartbreak. LCC K-9 Police Ministry Handler Jim with LCC K-9 Police Ministry Dog Phinehas and LCC K-9 Police Ministry Handler Troy with LCC K-9 Police Ministry Dog Eden were at the conference to bestow the hearts to these dedicated police officers and firefighters who serve each day. These brave women and men's calling is to serve, knowing they will face new challenges and uncertainty each day. We keep them in our prayers for God's protection. We thank their dedication and courage to serve and protect our communities. Psalm 23:4: "Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no danger, because you are with me; your rod and your staff, they protect me."
Last Friday, a horrible tragedy happened in the community of Osage Beach, Missouri, when four teenagers were in a serious car accident. Moses Claxton, a sophomore student at Osage High School, was killed when the vehicle struck a tree. Moses was only 16 years old. Moses’ parents are staff members at Osage High School, where he also attended. Moses’ loss is felt by his parents, brothers Sawyer and Gideon, friends, teachers, and all those who knew and loved Moses and his family. “Friends, family, and strangers alike were charmed by his gentle grace and generosity that belied an adventurous and fearless streak.” Two other students injured in the car accident on Friday were taken to the hospital with severe injuries, and a fourth teenager with mild injuries. We pray for these three young people for God’s healing, courage, and strength as they move forward after this tragedy.
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 this. The love, healing, and comfort we are able to provide are a direct result of your generosity.
In December 2023, Pastor Kurt Schilling of Emmaus Lutheran Church in Wisconsin and his wife Paulina suffered an unimaginable loss when they lost their four children - Daniel, Fabian, Lilian (9th grade), and Daniela (4th grade) - in a car crash. Paulina is originally from Ecuador, and Pastor Schilling was the children's stepfather. Shortly after the accident, Pastor Steve Kline of Shepherd of the Hills in Greenville, Wisconsin, and a friend of Pastor Schilling reached out to LCC requesting Hearts of Mercy & Compassion and crosses to honor the children's memory. LCC was honored to provide Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, as well as crosses in memory of the children. We were deeply moved to see our crosses carried high in front of each casket during the funeral procession in Ecuador, where the children were laid to rest. We pray for comfort and strength for the Schilling family during this difficult time, and we stand ready to provide support and care to anyone experiencing such a heart-wrenching loss. CLICK HERE to watch the video. |
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