LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry continues to grow and move forward sharing the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ with those who are suffering and in need.

Recently LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry had seven compassionate, passionate, and dedicated individuals from the East Coast to the West Coast, attend Top Dog training at Lutheran Church Charities in Northbrook, Illinois. These seven new Top Dogs will coordinate and lead their new LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams at their churches.

Four of the churches represented are working towards building a new LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry team in addition to the Comfort Dog Ministry team they currently have at their church. It is exciting to see the ministry continuing to move forward, deepening existing relationships in their community and establishing new ones.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry is also excited to share that two new churches will be part of this national ministry. First Lutheran Church from Tonawanda, New York and Christ the King, from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, will spread the reach of the Comfort Dog Ministry in their communities, sharing the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ with those who are suffering and in need.

We give thanks and praise to God for leading this ministry and speaking into the hearts of those who will lead these new LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams.

Janet Boye - Trinity, Lincoln, Nebraska
James Casner - First Lutheran, Yuba City, California
Linda Hunt - Atonement, Columbus, Ohio
Roxy Seifert - Trinity, Auburn, Illinois
Chuck Lowell - Immanuel, Charleston, Illinois
Miriam Deuel - Christ the King, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Barbara Reardon - First Lutheran, Tonawanda, New York
 
“If God has called you to lead, let nothing stand in the way of the privilege you have to serve Him and to serve His people through applying the gift, the resources and the opportunity He has provided to you.” George Barna, Leaders on Leadership

On Monday, August 26, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana) and Michael (LCC Staff) along with their handlers responded to the invitation to be at Dakota Jr./Sr. High School in Illinois after the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of one of their former students Cody Penticoff who was killed in a car accident on Friday, August 23.

Cody had just graduated from Dakota Jr./Sr. High School representing the Class of 2024 and was planning on attending Highland Community College to study Criminal Justice this fall. He planned on becoming a police officer when he turned 21 years old. Cody was serving on the Rock City Fire Department prior to his death.

Cody was loved by many in the community of Dakota. Comfort Dogs Jael and Michael accompanied by their dedicated handlers, provided emotional support to approximately 100 students and staff, helping to ease their distress during this difficult time. The comfort and companionship offered by the dogs allowed many students to find calm amidst their sorrow.

The team from Lutheran Church Charities was profoundly honored to serve this grieving community, sharing not just the warmth of the Comfort Dogs, but also the he light and hope of Jesus Christ with those who mourn the loss of Cody Penticoff.

We are deeply touched by the outpouring of support and generosity at the Charity Golf Outing organized in memory of Andy Whowell, a devoted LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Handler and a former Deputy Chief of the Arlington Heights Police Department. Andy's passion for the K-9 ministries and the community he served was truly remarkable.
 
This year's event, spearheaded by retired Lieutenant Ray Cowin, raised approximately $4,200 for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry. The funds raised not only honor Andy's legacy but also contribute to the essential work of providing comfort and support to those in need through our K-9 ministries.
 
We are grateful for the community's unwavering support and commitment to our mission. Join us in continuing Andy's legacy by volunteering or donating to support Lutheran Church Charities and the impactful work of the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry.

Last weekend, approximately 66 LCC K-9 Comfort Dog handlers and Ministry partners from Washington, California and Nevada met for a West Coast Regional Gathering that included fellowship, learning, and growing together in ministry. 

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Isaac with his team from Redeemer Lutheran Church in Spokane, Washington; Lois and her team from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, Nevada; Salome with her team from Faith Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, Nevada; Genesis and her team from Turlock, California; Micah and his team from Light of the Valley Lutheran Church in Elk Grove, California; and Rahab and her team from St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Stockton, California, were all in attendance.
 
During the gathering, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry teams participated in Spiritual First Aid certification training. This training will help equip the handlers and ministry partners as they minister and care for others that may be experiencing trauma or crisis. It is an amazing tool for the Comfort Dog teams as they work in their ministry.  The teams also did a refresher training with their Comfort Dogs and Ministry partners enjoying the time to be together and work together.
 
It was a blessing for the LCC staff and the West Coast teams to be together, and thank you to all who provided the location, food, and help to make the gathering a success!

National Night Out is a yearly event sponsored by local police departments on the first Tuesday in August.  This night allows cities and towns across America a chance to get outside, meet neighbors, and build community. 

Each community has its own groups and partners to enhance the experience for attendees and this year, there were three towns in Illinois that found LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in attendance.

In Des Plaines, Illinois, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Emma (LCC Staff) along with LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs Brutus and Nigel (LCC Staff) found themselves surrounded by members of the Des Plaines Police Department, and part of the Emergency Management team. 

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Jael (Trinity - Hobart, Indiana) and Michael (LCC Staff) and were at the National Night Out in Lisle, Illinois.  When not having their faces painted, watching demonstrations by the SWAT teams and bomb squads, or climbing on fire trucks and squad cars, children and their families got a chance to calm down and enjoy petting Jael and Michael.

Families, friends and neighbors that attended the Wheeling, Illinois, National Night Out got a chance to visit with some of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in training.  There were a lot of smiles and a lot of love given by LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs in training Abednego, Bethesda, Gethsemane, Glory,  Honey, Olive, Shadrach, and  Zechariah.  The Wheeling Police officers were especially grateful for their presence.

On July 24th, LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Nigel and his veteran handler Jim Morrison had the privilege of being present to bid farewell to the veterans embarking on the remarkable journey of Honor Flight Chicago #116. While all Honor Flights hold a special place in our hearts, this particular event carried two extraordinary aspects that made it truly memorable. Firstly, this flight marked a significant milestone as it transported the 11,000th veteran to our nation's capital, where they would visit various military memorials and sites to pay homage to their sacrifices.
 
Additionally, what made Honor Flight Chicago #116 even more exceptional was the presence of veteran Edward Wall on board. Edward's remarkable service spans across World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, showcasing his unwavering dedication and bravery. Meeting Edward and engaging in heartfelt conversations with him was a profound honor and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans.
 
The LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry has served at the Honor Flight Chicago since 2018, providing comfort and support to veterans at five processing stations in the baggage claim area before their flights. The Comfort Dogs have been a source of solace and companionship for these brave individuals, offering a sense of calm and reassurance during what can be a stressful time. The event resonates with our mission, highlighting the importance of honoring our veterans and their invaluable service to our country. Join us in celebrating the emotional and unforgettable moments of this event as we continue to uphold our commitment to serving those in need with love and care.
 
Honor Flight Chicago recognizes the bravery, determination and patriotism of our nation’s senior war veterans with a one-of-a-kind journey to Washington, D.C. The trip is only one day, but the experience is life-changing.

“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14

Losing a child is one of the most difficult experiences a parent can go through. Bo's Heavenly Clubhouse in Wisconsin is an organization that provides support and love to parents and families who have lost a child.

Recently, at their annual Memorial Walk, families were able to honor their lost children by stopping at signs placed along the route. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was also present, offering comfort and providing support to these  families.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity (Brookfield Lutheran - Brookfield, Wisconsin), Hagar (Faith Lutheran - Appleton, Wisconsin), and Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin) and their handlers offered a quiet place to collect one's thoughts at the end of the walk.

One boy spent most of the day with the Comfort Dogs and their handlers processing the big emotions of losing his beloved brother. "Our boy loved these dogs! He spent the whole time cuddling them. Thank you for giving him this opportunity! He needed the comfort after he saw his brother sign."

The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry grieves with these families and provides emotional and spiritual support to help them through their grief. If you want to support the work of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry, consider donating to help them continue to provide comfort to those suffering and  in need.

Last Wednesday, the Strasburg-Stewardson, Illinois, community faced a heartbreaking tragedy involving the loss of three young lives in a devastating UTV accident. Our hearts ache for the families and friends of Edie Whittenberg, Karly Wetherell, and Sienna Bostedo during this incredibly difficult time. All three girls were members at local Lutheran churches and poised to start high school in the fall.  A group of school superintendents and principals, along with LCC staff, helped set up the Crosses and Hearts in memory of the three girls.

Rev. Whybrew of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Strasburg extended an invitation to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry to join in offering comfort and solace to those affected by this tragedy. The vigil held at Stewardson-Strasburg High School last Thursday provided a space for students, staff, and community members to lean on each other for support.

We are deeply grateful to the group of school superintendents, principals, and LCC staff who helped set up the Crosses and Hearts in memory of the three girls. This display serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the love they shared with those around them.

Over 1,000 people attended the vigil , filling the gym with a shared, reflective mood. Pastor Weaver had baptized and confirmed one of the girls and Rev. Whybrew, similarly, had confirmed two more recently.  They offered prayers and scripture readings amidst the grief. The vigil focused on scriptures about eternal rest and faith in Jesus, reflecting the community's strong Lutheran beliefs.

Despite the sadness, there were moments of solace and even smiles among the grieving families, supported by friends and families. One of the local teachers spoke of survivor guilt as her children were with her, safely. She emphasized how everyone is united in faith, emphasizing their reliance on God, and His promises, to cope. The vigil highlighted the community's resilience, unity, and unwavering faith as they mourned their loss together.

Rev. Whybrew knew Edie and Karly as these young girls and their families are part of St Paul’s church family. This has been an emotional time for his congregation and him as well. Sienna and her family are members at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stewardson. The truck driver, who survived, and his family are members at Grace Lutheran Church in Strasburg where Rev. Whybrew is also their pastor.
 
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Esther and Jordan from Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Collinsville, traveled immediately to be there for the hurting communities of Strasburg-Stewardson. They spent time with those who knew and loved Edie, Karly, and Sienna, surrounding them in love, comfort and protectiveness as the dealt with the shock of this unthinkable loss. The teams for Esther and Jordan returned to Strasburg-Stewardson on Tuesday, July 16, for the visitation held for Edie Whittenberg, Karly Wetherell and Sienna Bostedo.

Edie was a driven, determined, ambitious soul with a contagious smile that lit up a room. She radiated a pure love for life, Jesus, family, and her friends. When you think of Karly, remember her smile, her love for Christ, her laugh, her long thick hair that got frizzy when she would sweat, her sportsmanship, her enthusiastic cheering at games, and the brightness she brought to all those around her. Sienna was goofy, smart, fun, caring, a hard worker, and a natural born leader.  She loved her family above all else.  They were her world and she was theirs.
 
We remember the families and loved ones of these three precious children of God and pray for them to be wrapped in God’s loving and comforting arms.