 The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their dedicated handlers have had a busy time the last two months. God has guided the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and the teams from different parts of the country to share His love, mercy, compassion, and presence with the hurting during some of their darkest moments. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry felt God’s direction as He led us to His people in Waukesha, Wisconsin, after the horrific tragedy during their Christmas parade on November 21. Then a couple of weeks later, God opened the way to share His love in Oxford, Michigan, after the tragic shooting at the Oxford High School on November 30.  The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers and ministry partners brought a distraction to the confusion and loss that the people in these communities were feeling. The Comfort Dogs were able to bring calm during a chaotic time and a smile in the midst of their sadness. It seems that everywhere we turn, people need hope. It is hard to see the light when we are surrounded by darkness at times. God is there, no matter where we find ourselves. God follows us into the darkness, and in His presence, we see compassion, faithfulness, and hope. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. Psalm 139:11-12 There are so many encounters that the Comfort Dogs and their handlers had, where you could see God’s hand in the moment. Oxford, Michigan The mother the LCC K-9 Ministry team met in the Meijer’s parking lot in Oxford, Michigan, is just one of those moments. One of the handlers saw a woman heading toward her car wearing an Oxford sweatshirt and stopped to ask if she had children who attended the high school. The woman shared that she has two children who attend Oxford High School and that one of her children had been sitting next to the shooter in class just before they had changed classes. The handler prayed with this mother, who is grateful to have her children alive and well and yet is grieving for the families who lost their son or daughter. This mother shared what a comfort it has been to the kids to have the Comfort Dogs in their community. The principals from the schools in the surrounding Oxford communities were so grateful to see the students smiling and talking while spending time with the Comfort Dogs at their schools. The Comfort Dog Ministry is about sharing the hope and light that God provides during our darkest times.
 The LCC K-9 Ministry teams met Kristin, who has followed the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs for years and finally got to meet them at Meijers with her children after they saw a post on Facebook that the team would be there with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Gideon (St. Michael's - Bloomington, Minnesota), Malachi (St. Matthew - Hawthorn Woods, Illinois), Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois), and Beloved Comfort Dog in training. When she found out the Comfort Dogs were coming to "her town," it brought the tragedy home to her. She was very grateful that the Comfort Dogs and their handlers were there for her community of Oxford, Michigan. I just wanted to thank you again for taking the time to talk with me yesterday at Meijer. I am amazed by your teams' compassion and dedication to helping the communities affected by such horrific events. Being in a position like you are, constantly surrounded by tragedy and heartbreak, is an extremely heavy job. LCC K-9 and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) Ministry teams are serving with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer. The hearts/crosses were placed at the memorial at Oxford High School for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the four lives lost so far.
The LCC K-9 ministry teams will continue to serve this hurting community after the Christmas break as invited. Please join LCC as we pray for the Oxford High School community during this incredibly difficult time. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them. Waukesha, Wisconsin The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams continued to serve throughout the Waukesha community, and first responders as invited to help them continue to process their grief following the Christmas parade tragedy. The LCC K-9 Ministry teams will return for more visits as invited.  On Sunday, December 19, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Charity (Brookfield Lutheran - Brookfield, Wisconsin) and her ministry team visited Waukesha Fire Station 2 and Station 5. These brave gentlemen were working the evening of the Christmas parade tragedy. The team presented them with an LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion filled with signatures and words of encouragement from congregation members of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church and Brookfield Lutheran Church. When they see this heart in their station they will know how loved and appreciated they are. "We are so blessed by these guys and can’t wait to go back for more visits to continue to support our awesome first responders!"
LCC received this heartfelt thank you note for the support provided to the Waukesha community: We sincerely appreciate your participation in Waukesha's Friends and Family Resource Center that was established to provide support to Waukesha Community after the Christmas Parade tragedy. Please pass along our thanks to all of the handlers that responded.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry is one of presence. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams are always amazed how God directs their paths and places before them the people He wants them to love and comfort. "It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you ... yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand." Mother Teresa
LCC never goes where we are not invited. LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministries NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. Please keep the Waukesha, Wisconsin community in your prayers following the devastating tragedy.
 LCC Ministry Teams Still Serving in Waukesha, Wisconsin, following the Christmas Day Parade Incident On Tuesday, November 30, a mass shooting occurred at Oxford High School in the Detroit exurb of Oxford Township, Michigan. Four students were killed and seven people were injured, including a teacher. Authorities arrested and charged a 15-year-old sophomore. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Matt Schuler and Mike Felten, Director of Family Life, from Journey Lutheran Church in Oxford, Michigan. Twelve LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs from Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin traveled to be with the heartbroken community of Oxford, Michigan after the horrible shooting at Oxford High School. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry has been sharing the mercy, compassion and presence of Jesus Christ at different schools in the area, 911 Call Center, fire departments, and at various community events since arriving on December 5.  Anna & Claudia (Trinity - Toledo, Ohio) Beloved (Comfort Dog in training) Caleb (Immanuel - Valparaiso, Indiana) Dove (Peace - Fremont, Indiana) Isaiah & Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana) Jared (Holy Cross - Fort Wayne, Indiana) Gideon (St. Michael’s - Bloomington, Minnesota) Malachi (St. Matthew - Hawthorn Woods, Illinois) Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin) Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois) During the teams' visit at Meijers last week, which served as a reunification center, a mom met us with her three kids. Here is a testimony she shared with us:  My heart is absolutely hurting. I can’t think straight. When I am alone with my thoughts the world feels so incredibly broken. I have spent nearly the entire day on the verge of tears thinking about humans and how their choices hurt others. Typically during times like this, I am driven to help in some way. Not this time. I am frozen and can hardly move. I took the kids today to Meijers and we were greeted at the door by beautiful dogs. I learned that these dogs traveled with their handlers from other states to bring comfort to our community. Not only did they bring us sweet, goofy, lovable, dogs to love up, but the idea that these people took time out of their lives to travel to us brought me hope. I have been reminded to “look for the helpers”. The helpers do so much more than their task, they truly do bring peace, hope, and love to our world. Thank you to all the helpers. You remind me of all that is good in the world.  On Tuesday, December 7, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna, Claudia, Caleb, Dove, Isaiah, Jael, and Jared spent time with the students at Rochester Adams High School, Rochester Hills, Michigan. These students are also feeling the fear, confusion, uncertainty, and loss of what happened at Oxford High School. The students needed the unconditional love and gentleness the Comfort Dogs and their handlers provided.  Some of the students spent time petting the Comfort Dogs, with no words spoken, laying their worries aside, and finding a moment of calm and comfort. While petting Claudia, one student shared, “This is the safest I have felt all week.” Claudia just knew he needed her. The school administration at Rochester Adams High School was extremely grateful for the Comfort Dogs and handlers being there and were overwhelmed by the joy they saw in the kids' actions and faces. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalms 46:1 On Wednesday, December 8, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited to spend time at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lake Orion, Michigan. Pastor Ben Oelschlaeger invited the Comfort Dogs to visit with the students and teachers at the preschool. The Comfort Dogs loved spending time with the little ones and reading with them.  On Thursday, December 9, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams visited two Oxford Fire Departments and the Oakland County 911 Dispatch Center to bring some much-needed stress relief and comfort. On the day of the Oxford High School shooting, over 100 calls were made to the dispatch center. We praise God for these brave firefighters and dispatchers who are there for us in our time of need. Thank you to the LCC K-9 Ministry teams for being there to show love to these heroes. "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8 On Monday, December 13, LCC's second K-9 deployment team with LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Gideon, Malachi, Mary, Tobias, and Beloved Comfort Dog in training spent some time at Divine Child Catholic Schools, in Deerfield, Michigan. The students need the comforting presence of the Comfort Dogs and their handlers after the loss of a student to suicide last week. Their grief was compounded by the ripple effect of the mass shooting that happened at the neighboring high school in Oxford, Michigan.
LCC K-9 and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) Ministry teams are serving with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer. The hearts/crosses were placed at the memorial at Oxford High School for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the four lives lost so far.  The LCC K-9 ministry teams will continue to serve this hurting community as the requests come in for the Comfort Dogs and their handlers to be present.
Please join LCC as we pray for the Oxford High School community during this incredibly difficult time. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams continue to serve for the fourth week throughout the Waukesha community, and first responders as invited to help them continue to process their grief following the Christmas parade tragedy. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha.  On Tuesday, December 14, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Charity (Brookfield - Brookfield, Wisconsin) and her handlers did a follow-up visit with Clarendon Elementary School in Wisconsin. The team dropped off 25 more Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs at the school, one for each classroom. They also brought 75 LCC K-9 Comfort Dog coloring books. Each third grader will be taking a coloring book home this Friday. Charity and her handlers also presented Andrea, the principal, and Brittany, the district psychologist, with a Heart of Mercy & Compassion signed at the affiliate ministry gathering a few weekends ago. As Andrea was quickly reading some of the heartfelt messages, she ran her finger over the words as if she was really absorbing the support and love expressed by each affiliate.  The LCC K-9 ministry team was presented with thank you cards from the 3rd-grade class thanking each LCC K-9 Comfort Dog and their ministry team for being with them to help. Please continue to pray for the staff and school as they are still navigating the loss of Jackson Sparks and preparing for his brother to return following his injuries. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and handlers look forward to continuing to support them as we have been invited back next year for a fun visit!  LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry placed hearts/crosses at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the six lives lost.
Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. LCC never goes where we are not invited. LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministries NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. Please keep the Waukesha, Wisconsin community in your prayers following the devastating tragedy.
 LCC Ministry Teams Still Serving in Waukesha, Wisconsin, following the Christmas Day Parade Incident |
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LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and ministry teams serving Oxford, Michigan:
Anna & Claudia (Trinity - Toledo, Ohio)
Caleb (Immanuel - Valparaiso, Indiana)
Dove (Peace - Fremont, Indiana)
Isaiah & Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana)
Jared (Holy Cross - Fort Wayne, Indiana)
Anna & Claudia (Trinity - Toledo, Ohio)
Caleb (Immanuel - Valparaiso, Indiana)
Dove (Peace - Fremont, Indiana)
Isaiah & Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana)
Jared (Holy Cross - Fort Wayne, Indiana)
On Friday, December 3, Anna and Claudia Comfort Dogs and their handlers were present at the Candlelight Vigil at the Downtown Oxford Memorial to bring comfort and support to this devastated community. Many people stopped by to spend time with the Comfort Dogs during the service.
A family came up to the Comfort Dogs and their handlers during the memorial service. The son sat on the planters by the team. Anna and Claudia got closer and closer to him, sensing he was in need of comfort and unconditional love. The handlers found out the son was having a hard time after the shooting. Claudia and Anna would not leave his side.
A family came up to the Comfort Dogs and their handlers during the memorial service. The son sat on the planters by the team. Anna and Claudia got closer and closer to him, sensing he was in need of comfort and unconditional love. The handlers found out the son was having a hard time after the shooting. Claudia and Anna would not leave his side.
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On Sunday, December 5, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their teams attended worship services at Journey Lutheran Church and Early Childhood Center and met Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II of Michigan, who also attended services to support the grieving community.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna, Caleb, Claudia, Dove, Isaiah, Jael, and Jared and their handlers were able to spend time comforting parents and their children. A girl and her brother spent time seeking the calming and comforting presence of the Comfort Dogs. A mother watched from the doorway, overwhelmed by how their young lives had been changed. One of the handlers stepped next to the heartbroken mother and put a gentle arm around her holding her close as the mother placed her head on the handler’s shoulder and wept.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna, Caleb, Claudia, Dove, Isaiah, Jael, and Jared and their handlers were able to spend time comforting parents and their children. A girl and her brother spent time seeking the calming and comforting presence of the Comfort Dogs. A mother watched from the doorway, overwhelmed by how their young lives had been changed. One of the handlers stepped next to the heartbroken mother and put a gentle arm around her holding her close as the mother placed her head on the handler’s shoulder and wept.
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After the visit, we received a heartwarming thank you note from a dad:
I'm just a dad who has seen the heartbreaking effect the tragedy in Oxford has had on my 23-year-old daughter. The tragedy that happened at Oxford High School has a ripple effect throughout our small community.
I just wanted to thank you for being here today at Journey Lutheran in Oxford. My daughter is a preschool teacher at Journey. The unconditional love that you brought with your comfort dogs was a much-needed jolt of compassion. I know it truly was the medicine my daughter needed today. I know my daughter wasn't your sole audience this morning at Journey. But I know by her texts, she was definitely a beneficiary of your goodwill and love.
Again, thank you for being in our community at this troubling time.
With great respect and gratitude,
Joe
Later that day, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their teams stopped by the HomeGrown Brewing Company to support their fundraiser for the Oxford community. The teams also visited the memorial at Oxford High School.
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On Monday, December 6, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their teams visited the Oxford Lutheran Northwest High School in Rochester Hills, Michigan, during their lunch hour.
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On Tuesday, December 7, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Anna, Caleb, Claudia, Dove, Isaiah, Jael, and Jared visited the little ones at Journey Lutheran Church and Early Childhood Center in Oxford. One of the deceased students has a sister that attends Journey Early Child Center.
The little ones were each given a Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dog to take home and hold onto whenever they feel scared or need comfort.
The Journey preschool class was all smiles as they celebrated Jael Comfort Dog's third birthday by singing "Happy Birthday" to her. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers love their new friends at Journey Church and Early Childhood Center.
Every time you purchase a stuffie, we give one to someone who is suffering and in need.
The little ones were each given a Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dog to take home and hold onto whenever they feel scared or need comfort.
The Journey preschool class was all smiles as they celebrated Jael Comfort Dog's third birthday by singing "Happy Birthday" to her. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers love their new friends at Journey Church and Early Childhood Center.
Every time you purchase a stuffie, we give one to someone who is suffering and in need.
The teams were also invited by Pastor Matt Schuler to be present at a clergy prayer gathering from churches in the surrounding Oxford community.
Other places where the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are present this week: Rochester Adams High School, Common Denominator Coffee and Company, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Oxford Bridges High School, and Meijers which was the reunification center for the High School.
A second deployment team will be going to Oxford, Michigan, next week to continue to serve the hurting community with compassion. In addition to other invitations, the LCC K-9 Ministry teams will be visiting all of the feeder schools to the Oxford High School.
Please join LCC as we pray for the Oxford High School community during this incredibly difficult time.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
Other places where the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are present this week: Rochester Adams High School, Common Denominator Coffee and Company, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Oxford Bridges High School, and Meijers which was the reunification center for the High School.
A second deployment team will be going to Oxford, Michigan, next week to continue to serve the hurting community with compassion. In addition to other invitations, the LCC K-9 Ministry teams will be visiting all of the feeder schools to the Oxford High School.
Please join LCC as we pray for the Oxford High School community during this incredibly difficult time.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams continued to serve and bring comfort to the hurting community of Waukesha, Wisconsin, for the third week following the Christmas parade tragedy. On Sunday, November 21, the driver of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) plowed into participants and observers at a Christmas parade killing six people, including an 8-year-old boy, and injuring 62 others.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
On Friday, December 3, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Bekah & Kye (Immanuel – Belvidere, Illinois), Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin), Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin), and Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin) with their ministry teams returned to Clarendon Avenue Elementary School in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, to be there for the students and staff the day after they said their final good-byes to classmate and friend Jackson Sparks, the 8-year-old boy killed in the parade attack.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
On Friday, December 3, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Bekah & Kye (Immanuel – Belvidere, Illinois), Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin), Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin), and Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin) with their ministry teams returned to Clarendon Avenue Elementary School in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, to be there for the students and staff the day after they said their final good-byes to classmate and friend Jackson Sparks, the 8-year-old boy killed in the parade attack.
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Some of the third-grade classmates of Jackson had their Mini Stuffed LCC K-9 Comfort Dog with them. The stuffies were handed out to the children on Monday, November 29, to give them something to hug tightly in their little arms, to talk to, and to provide comfort until the Comfort Dogs' return visit last Friday. Some of the children even named their stuffies after their favorite LCC K-9 Comfort Dog that had visited them on Monday.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their teams hope to visit again in the future, the students and staff at Clarendon Avenue Elementary School.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Isaiah 41:10
Every time you purchase a stuffie, we give one to someone who is suffering and in need.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their teams hope to visit again in the future, the students and staff at Clarendon Avenue Elementary School.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Isaiah 41:10
Every time you purchase a stuffie, we give one to someone who is suffering and in need.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and ministry teams serving Waukesha, Wisconsin:
Bekah & Kye (Immanuel – Belvidere, Illinois)
Candace (LCC Staff based in Wisconsin)
Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin)
Eve (St. John’s – Lombard, Illinois)
Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin)
Julia (King of Glory – Elgin, Illinois)
Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin)
Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin)
Sage & Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois)
Bekah & Kye (Immanuel – Belvidere, Illinois)
Candace (LCC Staff based in Wisconsin)
Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin)
Eve (St. John’s – Lombard, Illinois)
Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin)
Julia (King of Glory – Elgin, Illinois)
Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin)
Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin)
Sage & Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois)
Last week, LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry placed hearts/crosses at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the six lives lost. Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
LCC never goes where we are not invited. LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministries NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. Please keep the Waukesha, Wisconsin community in your prayers following the devastating tragedy.
LCC never goes where we are not invited. LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministries NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. Please keep the Waukesha, Wisconsin community in your prayers following the devastating tragedy.
We only go if invited and NEVER charge those we serve
LCC K-9 Ministries
Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses For Losses Ministry
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams continue to serve and bring comfort to the community of Waukesha, Wisconsin, that was devastated by the Christmas parade tragedy. On Sunday, November 21, the driver of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) plowed into participants and observers at a Christmas parade killing six people, including an 8-year-old boy, and injuring 62 others.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
LCC K-9 and HMC Ministry teams continue to serve with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer.
The hearts/crosses are placed at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the six lives lost so far.
Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
The hearts/crosses are placed at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the six lives lost so far.
Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and ministry teams serving Waukesha, Wisconsin starting Monday, November 22- present:
Bekah (Immanuel – Belvidere, Illinois)
Candace (LCC Staff based in Wisconsin)
Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin)
Eve (St. John’s – Lombard, Illinois)
Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin)
Julia (King of Glory – Elgin, Illinois)
Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin)
Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin)
Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois)
Sage (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
Candace (LCC Staff based in Wisconsin)
Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin)
Eve (St. John’s – Lombard, Illinois)
Hagar (Faith Lutheran – Appleton, Wisconsin)
Julia (King of Glory – Elgin, Illinois)
Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin)
Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin)
Samson (Zion – Marengo, Illinois)
Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois)
Sage (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin)
| On Tuesday, November 23, and Wednesday, November 24, Candace, Charity, Mary, Sage, and Zoey Comfort Dogs and their handlers spent time at the “Friends and Family Resource Center” at Carroll University Campus Center to support the hurting community of Waukesha. It was an honor to serve the families and those who came to assist them. |  |
On Saturday, November 27, Bekah, Charity, Mary, Rhoda, Sage, Samson, and Zoey Comfort Dogs and their handlers were invited to spend time with members of the Waukesha High School marching band and their families at Waukesha West High School. The Waukesha High School Band was part of the annual Christmas parade last week and was impacted by the horrible tragedy of that day.
The students, families, faculty, and community members gathered together at Saturday’s bonfire to draw strength and comfort from one another. The Waukesha High School students and their families sought comfort and love from the Comfort Dogs. During these times of loss and hurt, all we can do is show up with love and let those who are hurting know we are there for them.
The students, families, faculty, and community members gathered together at Saturday’s bonfire to draw strength and comfort from one another. The Waukesha High School students and their families sought comfort and love from the Comfort Dogs. During these times of loss and hurt, all we can do is show up with love and let those who are hurting know we are there for them.
On Monday, November 29, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers were at two schools affected by the Waukesha parade tragedy.
Hagar, Rhoda, and Samson Comfort Dogs and their handlers spent time with each class at Beautiful Savior Lutheran School. Monday was the first time the students had been back to school since the parade crash. Having the Comfort Dogs there brought a happy distraction during a very difficult time. The K-9s spent time giving the students much love and attention as they continue to process and heal from this tragedy that affected their hometown.
"The dogs are just doing their jobs in essence," said Gary Kilvinger, Lutheran Church Charities handler for Charity Comfort Dog. "That's what they're trained to do, to bring this calmness to people's lives."
Hagar, Rhoda, and Samson Comfort Dogs and their handlers spent time with each class at Beautiful Savior Lutheran School. Monday was the first time the students had been back to school since the parade crash. Having the Comfort Dogs there brought a happy distraction during a very difficult time. The K-9s spent time giving the students much love and attention as they continue to process and heal from this tragedy that affected their hometown.
"The dogs are just doing their jobs in essence," said Gary Kilvinger, Lutheran Church Charities handler for Charity Comfort Dog. "That's what they're trained to do, to bring this calmness to people's lives."
Clarendon Elementary, Mukwonago, Wisconsin, was the other school that the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams visited on Monday. Bekah, Charity, and Mary Comfort Dogs were there to capture the tears and receive the students' sweet hugs and gentle touches. The Comfort Dogs were good listeners and responded to the children and teachers with their soft, understanding eyes and unconditional love.
When the school counselor saw the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs arrive Monday morning, she breathed a sigh of relief. "People have dogs, but these dogs bring another level of comfort I have never seen. Your dogs helped in so many ways. Your teams are amazing."
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was honored to serve these two schools and their compassionate and dedicated teachers and principals.
When the school counselor saw the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs arrive Monday morning, she breathed a sigh of relief. "People have dogs, but these dogs bring another level of comfort I have never seen. Your dogs helped in so many ways. Your teams are amazing."
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was honored to serve these two schools and their compassionate and dedicated teachers and principals.
On Monday evening, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their ministry teams visited and served the City of Waukesha 911 Dispatch and Police Department who had responded to the horrible incident at the Christmas parade.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Mary, Rhoda, Sage, Samson, Zoey, and LCC K-9 Police Ministry Dogs Candace, Charity, Eve, and Julia were there to love and comfort these brave men and women who give of themselves, their skills, and knowledge to help in difficult times. God gives us each other to lean on, love, and pray with when we are hurting.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Mary, Rhoda, Sage, Samson, Zoey, and LCC K-9 Police Ministry Dogs Candace, Charity, Eve, and Julia were there to love and comfort these brave men and women who give of themselves, their skills, and knowledge to help in difficult times. God gives us each other to lean on, love, and pray with when we are hurting.
A Heart of Mercy & Compassion was presented to the City of Waukesha 911 Dispatch and Waukesha Police Department in appreciation of their dedication and service.
Please keep the Waukesha community and the first responders who serve them in your prayers as they continue to heal.
Please keep the Waukesha community and the first responders who serve them in your prayers as they continue to heal.
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LCC never goes where we are not invited. LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministries NEVER charge those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. Please keep the Waukesha, Wisconsin community in your prayers following the devastating tragedy.
Dedicated LCC volunteers Rob and Jennifer Fosness recently led a team of volunteers in a painting event for the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion Ministry. Along with several other volunteers, including members of St. Matthew’s, Hawthorn Woods, Illinois, LWML, eighty hearts, and sixty fish were painted to help build stock at LCC for serving those who are suffering and in need or to celebrate a victory, honor service, as an expression of love, or to be an encouragement in the face of adversity.
Thank you, St. Matthew, for your passion for assisting in this meaningful and growing ministry of sharing mercy, compassion, love, and hope of Jesus through presence and prayer.
Thank you, St. Matthew, for your passion for assisting in this meaningful and growing ministry of sharing mercy, compassion, love, and hope of Jesus through presence and prayer.
LCC K-9 and Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses Ministry Teams Continue to Serve the Community
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For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. Isaiah 49:13
At 4:39 pm on Sunday, November 21, the Waukesha Christmas parade route was packed with families and children of all ages who were present for the festive occasion when a fleeing vehicle drove recklessly into the route. Six people have been killed – four female adults and one male adult with ages ranging from 52 – 81, and one 8-year-old boy who passed away on Tuesday. Six children are critical and approximately 62 other victims with injuries ranging from critical, serious, and fair conditions. Eighteen patients between the ages of 3 to 16 were taken to Children’s Wisconsin Hospital, including three sets of siblings.
In less than 24 hours, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
In less than 24 hours, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs were invited by Pastor Peter Schmidt from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha and were present at the Waukesha Candlelight Vigil that night.
Tim Hetzner, LCC President/CEO deployed with LCC K-9 Ministry teams and brought hearts/crosses through our Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC), Crosses for Losses Ministry to help people who are shocked and trying to process this horrific event.
LCC K-9 and HMC Ministry teams served with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer. The hearts/crosses are placed at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the five lives lost so far. Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
LCC K-9 and HMC Ministry teams served with open hearts to listen to the hurting, bringing them hope, comfort, and prayer. The hearts/crosses are placed at the Veterans Park memorial site for people to sign and leave condolence messages, pray, and pay their respects to the five lives lost so far. Additional hearts/crosses were left with Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.
Monday night the community of Waukesha came out to support each other after Sunday’s devastating tragedy. Attendees shared their grief, honored the victims, sought comfort, and found hope. A simple touch of the hand placed on the soft warm fur of one of the Comfort Dogs, hugging tightly one of the plush LCC K-9 Comfort Dog stuffies, prayers from the handlers or the opportunity to write their messages to the families on the LCC Hearts of Mercy and Compassion for each of the victims helped them process their grief.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Candace (LCC Staff), Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin), Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois), and Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin), along with their ministry teams were present at the vigil to help bring comfort and hope to all who are grieving.
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Candace (LCC Staff), Charity (Brookfield Lutheran – Brookfield, Wisconsin), Mary (St. Paul – Janesville, Wisconsin), Rhoda (Prince of Peace – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory – Grayslake, Illinois), and Zoey (Concordia University Wisconsin – Mequon, Wisconsin), along with their ministry teams were present at the vigil to help bring comfort and hope to all who are grieving.
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LCC K-9 Ministry teams have already been invited to visit the following:
Pewaukee School District: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity and Rhoda and their teams visited teachers and staff on Monday, November 22, in preparation for the students to return to class on Tuesday.
Waukesha Emergency Service Group: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs invited to the Friends & Family Resource Center at Carroll University Campus Center this week to be a calming presence for anyone who is in need of counsel or help.
Hales Corner Lutheran Church: LCC K-9 Comfort Dog attended prayer service on Tuesday, November 23, to comfort those who are grieving.
Beautiful Savior Lutheran School: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs will visit each classroom to comfort students and staff on Monday, November 29.
Waukesha Police Department & Dispatch: On Monday, November 29, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs will visit night shift officers, dispatch, and support staff that responded to the parade tragedy to thank them for their service and comfort them as they continue to process what they experienced that night.
Pewaukee School District: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity and Rhoda and their teams visited teachers and staff on Monday, November 22, in preparation for the students to return to class on Tuesday.
Waukesha Emergency Service Group: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs invited to the Friends & Family Resource Center at Carroll University Campus Center this week to be a calming presence for anyone who is in need of counsel or help.
Hales Corner Lutheran Church: LCC K-9 Comfort Dog attended prayer service on Tuesday, November 23, to comfort those who are grieving.
Beautiful Savior Lutheran School: LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs will visit each classroom to comfort students and staff on Monday, November 29.
Waukesha Police Department & Dispatch: On Monday, November 29, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs will visit night shift officers, dispatch, and support staff that responded to the parade tragedy to thank them for their service and comfort them as they continue to process what they experienced that night.
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Through these tragic times, we hold on to each other and God’s love and presence. LCC K-9 Ministry teams will continue to serve in Waukesha and the surrounding community as invited wherever they are needed.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassions Ministry never charges those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and Hearts of Mercy & Compassions Ministry never charges those we serve as we bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need. We know that comfort is needed to help this shocked and devastated community and the first responders who serve them.
| On Monday, November 8, LCC received a request for a Hearts of Mercy & Compassion, Crosses for Losses to be placed at the site where a young man, Montee Clifton, lost his life as a result of a car accident in Aurora, Illinois. LCC staff member Tim Laabs delivered the heart to Angelic, who was on her way to the prayer vigil in Montee’s honor. LCC is pleased to be a part of honoring Montee’s life and pray that all who feel the impact of his death are comforted in their time of mourning. |  |
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