Faith is one of 63 LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs who are dual-vested, trading her traditional blue LCC K-9 vest for her camouflage one when she goes out for ministry visits with her handlers Mace and Quinlan who are veterans. Started in 2014, the LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry is carried out by veterans for veterans, serving current and past military members and their families. Faith and other Kare 9s regularly spend time in VFW centers, VA hospitals, Traumatic Brain Injury Care centers, clinics, expos, and military ceremonies and activities. At each stop, the mission is the same — to spread the mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ.

At VTC, Faith’s impact is quiet, yet profound. Many veterans, struggling with PTSD, addiction, and the weight of their past, find comfort in her presence. Whether it’s a simple pat on her head or a quiet moment of companionship, Faith offers something words often cannot—a sense of peace.

“Everything was new, and I was kind of nervous with anticipatory excitement,” one veteran recalled about his first VTC experience. “Faith helped me focus on what was happening right then and there, instead of being scattered. She helped me center myself and just be in the moment.”

Faith’s presence has become so meaningful that veterans often ask, “Where is Faith?” if she is absent. Her ability to bring light into the courtroom is undeniable. One participant shared, “Faith really brings a light with her when she comes into the courthouse.”

Bryan, a veteran who spent over a decade homeless and battling addiction, found hope and transformation through VTC and the Comfort Dog’s ministry. From the moment he met Faith and her handlers, his journey took a turn toward healing. Through their encouragement, Bryan joined St. Stephens’ Warriors of Our Faith (WOOF) team where he found camaraderie and purpose. Despite his initial fears of judgment, he took a bold step and attended Sunday service at St. Stephens. “I was welcomed with open arms and became a member of the St. Stephens family,” he shared.

Meeting Pastors David and Shea further deepened Bryan’s journey. “They spoke to me as if we had known each other for years and assured me they were there whenever I needed them.” Now, after nearly two years of sobriety, Bryan’s life is unrecognizable from his days on the streets. “None of this would have been possible without the love and support from St. Stephens, their Bible study, and Faith Comfort Dog. Because of them and God, I am truly a better man.”

From the depths of hardship to the light of faith and healing, Bryan’s journey is a testament to the power of love, community, and God’s grace.

The Veterans Treatment Court is unique—it’s not just about legal proceedings but about healing. Unlike traditional courtrooms, VTC fosters camaraderie, mutual respect, and personal growth. Veterans facing struggles are met with compassion and given the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

Faith’s work begins before the court session even starts. Veterans arrive early, undergoing drug tests and preparing for hearings. During this time, Faith and her handlers, Melissa and John, move through the waiting area, offering comfort. A simple wag of Faith’s tail or a quiet moment of companionship helps ease the tension and anxiety that so many veterans carry.

The impact of this ministry extends beyond the courtroom. A Friday night Bible study, launched the Friday of Labor Day weekend 2024, has become an essential part of many veterans’ recovery journeys. This spiritual outlet has been so meaningful that the court system now recognizes it as a voluntary but highly encouraged class for VTC participants. The support of probation officers, court clerks, and law enforcement has also been invaluable, with many engaging with Faith during court breaks.

The Veterans Treatment Court and its extended community, supported by Faith Comfort Dog, is a powerful reminder of what it means to truly be there for someone. Through kindness, spiritual support, and the unconditional love of a comfort dog, veterans are finding a way to heal, rebuild, and thrive. In this unique setting, veterans are not just treated as cases; they are seen as individuals worthy of respect, compassion, and a chance at redemption.

The presence of Faith Comfort Dog has created a ripple effect of kindness and transformation. Veterans who graduate from the VTC often return to mentor new participants, offering the same support they once received. Some have gone on to become counselors, helping others overcome the struggles they themselves once faced.

Faith’s veteran handler, John, has witnessed this transformation firsthand. “The judge knows everybody personally and checks in every two weeks,” he explains. “It’s rigorous, but it’s also full of support. Many participants say they’ve never had this kind of help before.”

For ministry partner Ralph, the calling to help veterans has become a way of life. “If somebody wants to go to church, I’m going to take them. I don’t care what their story is,” he says. From giving rides to helping find housing, Ralph has stepped in where help is needed most. “I was the last person I thought would be good at this, but it’s been a bigger blessing for me than for anybody I’ve prayed for or helped.”

“St. Stephens is my heart. This is where I belong. This is family,” shares a veteran who found not just a place of worship at the church but a family, recalling how the community welcomed her with open arms.

For Kirk Hymes, Lutheran Church Extension Fund District Vice President Southeastern District, a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Lay Deacon at St. Stephens, ministry is about making connections—often in the most unexpected ways. “Isn’t it amazing that this is all the result of one little golden retriever named Faith? These are veterans who may have gotten out of their lane and into some trouble,” Kirk shares. “But through Bible study, they’re finding something familiar—strong bonds, leadership, and the kind of brotherhood they had in the service.”

“This is a place to come and learn. This is a place to come in and just have a good time and be able to be around other veterans,” they reflected. In each of these spaces, faith and community make all the difference.

What started as an outreach has grown into a powerful community of veterans discovering that they are stronger together—and even stronger in the Word of God.

LCC’s K-9 Comfort Dog ministry is built on presence, love, and action. The work of Faith Comfort Dog and her dedicated team from St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Hickory N.C., is making a lasting impact in the lives of the veterans who bravely served our country.

As the team continues to serve, their mission remains clear: to offer unwavering support, comfort, PRESENCE and HOPE to those who need it most. With Faith Comfort Dog, the ministry is helping to rewrite the stories of these veterans, offering them not just a moment of comfort in court, but a new beginning in life.

If you feel called to support this ministry, we invite you to take the next step. Because of your generous donations to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry, lives are being transformed. Thank you for making a difference!

The 77th Mission of the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight flew on Saturday, October 5 from Mitchell Airport, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Aboard the flight were 116 veterans and their guardians. This day is dedicated to reflection, remembrance, and healing as the veterans visit national monuments in Washington D.C.

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Charity (Brookfield Lutheran - Brookfield, Wisconsin) and her handlers had the honor to be up early and meet and greet each veteran and their guardians as they checked in for their day and received their tickets. Charity made sure they were relaxed and ready to smile big for their memory book photo.

Later in the evening, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Charity (Brookfield Lutheran - Brookfield, Wisconsin), Sage (Concordia University Wisconsin - Mequon, Wisconsin), and Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois), and LCC Kare 9 Ministry Dogs Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin) and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois) sat at attention while their handlers thanked each veteran for their service and welcomed them home-something some never received after their service to our country.

In turn, many veterans stopped to say hi. Some were overcome with emotions seeing the five of LCC K-9 Ministry teams standing at attention waiting for them. The veterans found a place to collect their thoughts and say how thankful they were for the teams being present to welcome and encourage them. One veteran even saluted the team for what they did for them that night.

It’s always such an honor to be present on these special days. This flight was called the “Flight of Champions” which is exactly what the teams for Charity, Sage, Tobias, Samson, and Mary saw in each and every veteran – a true Champion and Hero!

Each month from April to October Honor Flight Chicago carries hundreds of veterans to Washington D.C. for a Day of Honor.

Upon their arrival back home in Chicago, Jim and Gene and all the other veterans on the flight were welcomed with great honors! Tim Laabs, representing LCC Hearts of Mercy & Compassion presented both of them with purple hearts filled with words of respect and appreciation for their service from family, friends and LCC coworkers.

“It was my honor and privilege to attend this month’s Honor Flight return trip of veterans at Midway Airport in Chicago, and to present a customized Heart of Mercy & Compassion to LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry staff member, Jim Morrison, and LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry volunteer, Gene Weisbecker. I am humbled and thankful for the service and sacrifice of not just these 110 veterans on the Honor Flight last Wednesday but all veterans and all military personnel currently serving on my behalf.  I highly encourage everyone to attend this monthly event at least once in their lifetime to experience what will be a lifetime memory,” says Tim.

Jim and Gene and their attending family members were thrilled to see so much support from the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog handlers and to be recognized by all LCC staff members via messages and on the Hearts of Mercy.

“It was joy to see so many LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs and their handlers as I arrived in D.C. and returned home to Chicago last Wednesday.

I want to thank them all for being there. 

The Honor Flight was one of those experiences in life that was so impactful, it is hard to describe. Unless you have experienced it, the honor is difficult to put into words,” shares Jim Morrison.

Please join LCC to honor and thank Gene and Jim and all veterans for their service to our country ensuring that we continue to uplift and celebrate them long after the flight has landed.

In August 2014, six years after establishing the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry®, a need emerged to form a ministry in response to the unique needs of our military, veterans, and their families.
 
This initiative was rooted in the understanding that veterans often feel more comfortable opening up to fellow service members who understand their journey. 
 
LCC Kare 9® Military Ministry was formed aligning with LCC’s mission of sharing the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need, aiming to provide essential emotional and spiritual support, creating a safe place for healing and camaraderie among those who have bravely served our country and their families.

The LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry teams of veterans and dogs serve veterans, active military, and their families in a variety of ways. The presence of a Kare 9 dog and veteran handler serves as a bridge for compassionate ministry to those who have given so much.
 
LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry dogs are trained to obey commands, welcome affection, and connect with individuals. Each Kare 9 handler is a veteran who shares the bond of duty, service, and memories. Some of these memories can be difficult to bear. All of these elements combine to create a relaxed setting to encourage conversation.
 
The LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs and handlers serve as follows:

• Yellow-ribbon reintegration events
  
• Honor Flights
  
• Military stand-downs
• Visiting VA hospitals and medical centers
• Holiday events (Memorial Day parades and ceremonies, Veterans Day ceremonies)
• Visiting veterans in their homes or nursing homes
• VFW, American Legion, and AmVets events

 
There are approximately 64 Kare 9 Military Ministry dogs in service in 23 states. The program expands as veteran handlers become available.

A Blessing

The journey of the veteran handlers with LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry reveals a profound and shared sentiment: their involvement has been a true blessing over the last ten years.

Each handler carries with them unique stories of transformation, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of the families they serve. Through their unwavering dedication, these handlers experience personal growth and spiritual fulfillment. By stepping into this meaningful role, they discover the joy of giving and the impact of love, proving that in service, both the giver and receiver are blessed abundantly.

LCC Kare 9 Military Comfort Dog Seth has been serving at Eternal Shepherd Lutheran Church in Seneca, South Carolina since 2019. Seth’s team is grateful for the impact of being involved with the Kare 9 Ministry.
 
“We are given the opportunity to recognize those veterans in our community who have served our nation and thank them. We have witnessed the bond of the veteran-to-veteran interaction. One aspect of the ministry that has been meaningful is coming alongside another veteran organization called Veteran Last Patrol (VLP) headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina. One veteran we continue to visit is a 99-year WWII veteran who served in both the European and Pacific theaters and who has lots of stories to tell. We were able to connect him with our local Christian school on their annual “Community Serve Day”. Select students visited and interviewed him and even sang a few Christian songs to which he joined in as he swayed in his wheelchair with a great big smile on his face! A precious moment to witness,” say handlers Rudy (U.S. Army Veteran) and Kyra Carbone.

Over the years, the veteran handlers of LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry have shared numerous touching experiences that highlight the profound bonds formed through their work. Each moment is a testament to sharing the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.

Whether it’s a simple gesture of comfort or a shared smile during a challenging time, these memories resonate deeply, illustrating the power of connection in healing.

Enjoy the stories highlighting the unique role LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry plays in providing spiritual and emotional uplift to veterans and their families.

Keith (U.S. Air Force Veteran) and Judy Stanton - LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Butch
“Several years ago, we attended an AmVets convention where a Vietnam vet approached Butch and I. We sat down and he began to share his story about the time he had served over there. His squad was caught in a fire fight during which he lost his best friend.  He shared so much more about his service. All the while he continued to pet Butch.  I felt so privileged to be able to listen to his story. When we finished, he gave me a big hug and his personal Marine Challenge coin.”

Susan Mason (U. S. Army Veteran)– LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Micah (Light of the Valley – Elk Grove, California)
“This has been such a wonderful and meaningful ministry. It has helped me grow in faith, be more relational, spiritual and outgoing. I feel blessed to even be a part of the Kare 9 Military Ministry and being recognized as Micah’s veteran handler during the Elk Grove Veterans Day Parade. I retired from the military in 2011 and from my civilian RN position in 2016, so the timing was right for me to explore veteran’s organizations in Elk Grove. I went to an American Legion (Elk Grove American Legion Post 233) meeting and found “my military family”. I mentioned the Micah ministry and we were invited to give a presentation. From that point, that Commander gave Micah and team permission to visit anytime. Subsequent Commanders have also agreed that we are welcome as a Military Ministry team whenever we like. My entire Legion family, however, enjoys Micah visiting once a quarter during the dinner/social hour. The Post that I joined is very active in serving veterans.”

Bob (U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran) and Barb Royce - LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Blitz
“I was at an event with a lot of veterans who recently returned from deployment. There was one guy who came up with his family He knelt down and started petting Blitz and I saw a smile on his face. After a while his told me, that he's been home for month now and that's the first time she saw him with a big smile on his face.”

Linda Showens - LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Spike
“Once a year we used to take a trip with a group known as Wounded Heroes Foundation. They did a motorcycle run to a VA hospital. The trip had dual purposes to raise funds for Veterans needs, put on a picnic at the hospital and distribute backpacks filled with supplies for inpatients. It was so moving to see the smiles on their faces and hear their stories.”

Dale (U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran) and Joyce Sasse - LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Britta
“We had shared what the Kare 9 ministry was all about to the residents at a retirement home in Colorado at the request of my brother that lived there. One of the topics was about moral injury and its impact. Afterwards two of the women came up to me in tears. Their husbands had been World War II veterans and would never talk about any of it.  They said they wished someone had explained this to them when their husbands were alive but were so thankful to know it wasn’t something they had done and now understood a little better. Then, on way back while in a restaurant on our way back from Colorado and the waitress started asking questions.  After hearing what we were about she told Dale he really needed to talk to the man in the corner- in the course of the conversation the veteran opened up to Dale about how God would never forgive him for what he did as a soldier.  This lead to an hour long discussion and sharing about God’s love and forgiveness.”

Gene Weisbecker (U.S. Navy Veteran) – LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Brutus
“I remember one visit at Camp Hometown Heroes in Wisconsin. There was a little boy sitting on the sidewalk traumatized, he was not talking. Brutus went and sat next to him and he started talking. These dogs are amazing. They don't even have to say anything for people to open up. It's probably best if they don't.”

The Original Squad

Tim Hetzner, former LCC President/CEO formed the original squad which later evolved into LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry.

Dale (U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran) and Joyce Sasse - Kare 9 Britta
Keith (U.S. Air Force Veteran) and Judy Stanton - Kare 9 Butch
Bob (U..S Army Vietnam Veteran) and Barb Royce - Kare 9 Blitz
Fred (U.S. Army Veteran) and Kathy Vanstrom - Kare 9 Flex
Raleigh (U..S Army Vietnam Veteran) and Linda Showens - Kare 9 Spike
Marvin (U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran) and Yoshiko Hanks - Kare 9 Brandy
Gene Weisbecker (U.S. Navy Veteran) - Kare 9 Brutus

The LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry has become an integral part of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry by adding a military person to the team to be a handler to provide support for military members and their families.

Jim Morrison, (U.S. Army Veteran), handler for LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Nigel, recalls the moment when he was asked to lead the ministry. “I was invited by Tim Hetzner to attend the 2014 LCC conference. It was then when the Kare 9 Military Ministry was launched. Tim offered me a position to head up the ministry. I took it and have never regretted that day.”

Susan Mason (U..S Army, RET, 1971-2011) with LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Micah (Light of the Valley - Elk Grove, California) got involved after her church inquired about getting an LCC K-9 Comfort Dog. “When our Light of the Valley (LoV), Elk Grove team started exploring the Comfort Dog ministry, it was pointed out that the dogs were identified by their vests. We learned also about the Kare 9 and Police ministries and the different vests. I volunteered to serve as the veteran handler at LoV and continue to this day. We have a strong Micah team and there is lots of support for the military events/functions that we are invited to. I continue to serve to honor other veterans and Micah is a great bridge in building relationships.”

LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry  Dog Seth has been serving at Eternal Shepherd Lutheran Church in Seneca, South Carolina since 2019. “Currently, Seth has two veteran handlers and five veteran ministry partners on his team.  We became involved in the Kare 9 Military Ministry after learning about it at LCC training and conferences,” says handler Rudy Carbone (U.S. Army Veteran).

Through the comforting presence of these specially trained dogs, the Kare 9 Military Ministry exemplifies empathy and support, ensuring that veterans and their loved ones receive the care they need.

Join us in making a difference whether through volunteering your time, supporting our mission, or learning more about the profound impact of the LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry. Together, we can help heal the hearts of those who have bravely served.

LCC never charges those we serve. We are able to do that with the support of donors. If you would like to help us, click here.

Become a Veteran/Kare 9 Military Ministry team sponsor. If you would like more information on how to sponsor a Kare 9 Military Ministry team, please contact Jim Morrison, LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Coordinator, at 866-455-6466 or email him at [email protected].

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.

On Tuesday, March 5, LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs Brutus, Nigel (LCC Staff), and Samson (Zion - Marengo, Illinois) and their veteran handlers spread love and compassion to sailors and recruits at the USO at Great Lakes Naval Station in North Chicago.

The monthly visits of the Comfort Dogs bring joy and comfort to those serving our nation, especially to those experiencing being away from home for the first time.

The Comfort Dogs and their teams always receive a warm welcome and are honored to bring love and support to our heroes.