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Tears of joy for “Mom’s Tree”

6/3/2025

 
LCC Disaster Response shares Christ’s love with debris cleanup after Missouri tornadoes.
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The three uprooted trees were so massive, they fell across the yards belonging to two women in Springfield, Missouri. One of the trees — a sycamore — was large enough that its root ball measured 10 feet tall with a 4-foot diameter trunk.

Neither of the two women, one of whom is a widow, knew how to clean up the mess from last month’s tornado — or how they would afford to pay for it. 

Amid a pouring rain, they couldn’t believe that LERT volunteers from Lutheran Church Charities would volunteer to do the work and clean up the debris for free, and do it with smiling faces.

They were so happy and cried tears of joy as the team gave each of them a slice of the tree with a cross and their signatures on it. On one of the slices, they wrote: “Mom’s Tree” in memory of the felled giant that Mrs. P’s mom had planted in 1963. The women gave each team member hugs and expressed their heartfelt gratitude.
Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response returned on Saturday from a one-week deployment in Springfield, Missouri, completing 18 sites and logging 335 volunteer hours. Led by Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, the team checked on 134 sites that Katie Kovach, Greene County Emergency Manager, asked the team to survey. 

Afterward, Kovach sent a short note of appreciation that stated: “I can’t thank your guys enough for all your hard work. It’s really amazing what you’ve been able to accomplish. You are a huge blessing to our community!” 

One site was a family farm that had several trees down on their roof, on and through the barn, and several uprooted on their property. The homeowner, Mr. B., and neighbors worked with the team to clear as much of this site they could in the rain. 

He sent a note of thanks that stated: “Please extend my thanks to the team for all your help. I’m sorry they had to work in the rain most of the time, but they did it so willingly. I am very blessed to have had all your help in making this gigantic job so much smaller. God Bless You All!”

LCC Disaster Response and Kris Schuldt, Missouri District Disaster Response Coordinator, extend their thanks to the following LERT team members serving in Springfield this past week:
Immanuel Lutheran, Batavia, IL – Bill Pietsch
Lord of Life Lutheran, Elburn, IL – Max Metz, Dave Smercina, Jeff Straughn, Larry Zagorski
St. Peter Lutheran, Schaumburg, IL – Missy Dieckmann, Ken and Vicki Kiviranta
St. Paul Lutheran, Janesville, WI – Lark and Terry Sanders

“
It has been a blessing to serve and bring the mercy, compassion, presence and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need after this tornado,” O’Day said. 

Help and hope after the storm

5/27/2025

 

LCC Disaster Response, Human Care, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams clean up and care across Missouri ​

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With rooftops blown apart, homes devastated with damage, and tree limbs scattered across yards and streets, Missouri has endured a week and a half of severe weather and heavy hearts. From St. Louis to Springfield, communities across the state have been hit hard following multiple tornadoes and straight line windstorms. 

Lutheran Church Charities has been on the ground this week with Disaster Response, Human Care, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams to help local LCMS churches with damage assessments, chainsaw work, debris removal, food and resource distribution, and spiritual care and comfort. 
​

Disaster Response

In Springfield, Missouri, last week and into this week, Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jason Johnson, LCC Disaster Response & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, have been assessing damage from an EF-1 tornado with 95 to 100 mph winds, followed by a second storm with 80 mph straight-line winds. 

The damage is widespread with more than 200 households impacted, according to Katie Kovach, Green County Emergency Manager.

After weather delays on Memorial Day, LCC LERT volunteers arrived Tuesday to work with Hope Lutheran Church, Republic, Missouri, and Trinity Lutheran in Springfield — both are assisting with the volunteer camp at the Lutheran Student Center and providing meals for LCC LERT chainsaw volunteers who will serve until Saturday.

O’Day and Johnson report widespread devastation, with numerous homes and properties bearing the brunt of severe tree and structural damage. Among those affected was an elderly, disabled veteran whose property was left in ruins—12 massive trees toppled across his land, and his home suffered significant harm. On Tuesday, the teams used chainsaws to cut through the fallen trees and worked tirelessly to clear his property. He was very grateful for their help and mercy shown to him. As a heartfelt gesture, they presented him with a cross, lovingly carved from one of the downed trees and signed by each team member. Deeply moved by their kindness and the mercy shown to him, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the help he never expected but desperately needed.
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The man shared how frustrating it is that he can no longer take care of his own property. He expressed great thanks that LCC could send chainsaw volunteers to help him clean up his yard this week. O’Day said they met several elderly homeowners that are grateful for the offer of assistance and a willingness to listen to their stories.
 
In St. Louis, another crew of LCC Disaster Response chainsaw and lift volunteers have joined forces with other LERT volunteers from around the country to clear tree damage at Concordia Seminary, which was swept by an EF-3 tornado on May 16. Officials estimate that more than 100 trees were uprooted or leaning on the campus and nearby park. Some caused damage to the chapel and several dormitories and apartments on the grounds.

Faced with challenging cleanup maneuvers, crews have been using heavy equipment and lifts — even climbing trees — to remove fallen and dangerous branches and limbs off buildings and clearing walking pathways.

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During the cleanup work, Ed Boerman, LCC LERT Chainsaw Instructor and Team Leader presented Rev. Dr. Tom Egger, President of Concordia Seminary St. Louis, a slice of tree with a cross and signatures of all the LERT volunteers’ signatures who have been working this week. During the chapel service on Sunday morning, Rev. Dr. Egger expressed his appreciation to all the volunteers for their hands and hearts of service.
 
LCC Disaster Response extends thanks to the following LERT volunteers for their service at the Seminary:
Immanuel DeKalb, IL – Pete and Christel Springmire
Immanuel Dundee, IL – Matt Flynn
St. John Wheaton, IL – Dave Mummah, Rich Wren
Trinity Lisle, IL – Ed Boerman
St Paul Grafton, WI – Mark and Bev Brueggemann
Trinity Davenport, IA – Ken Stotmeister
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LCC Care Teams

Two LCC Care Teams partnered with Bethlehem Lutheran St. Louis to distribute food, blankets, and essential care items to individuals affected by the storms. With stores closed, these are among the first supplies to reach the residents in the area.

One team included members from Living Word Galena, Ohio, along with staff from LCC. The second Care Team was from Trinity Green Trails Lisle, Illinois. They distributed gift cards and children’s activity back packs, with grooming supplies, hygiene kits, toys, books, and a blanket.

As they served the community, they provided Spiritual First Aid™ to those in need of emotional and spiritual support to take their next steps in their journey to recovery and healing.

While assisting community members, LCC Care Team volunteers spoke with Wanda. She expressed deep gratitude, saying she believed God had carried them through everything. Speaking quickly and with urgency, Wanda explained that she was helping her 80-year-old neighbor, who couldn’t leave the house. She had come to the distribution center to pick up food and supplies for her, as no one else was offering assistance.

Though thankful, Wanda also voiced concern about how long it might take for her neighbor to feel safe and comfortable again. Her stressed body language was noticeable, so one of the Care Team members placed a hand on her arm gently and spoke to her softly. As she began to calm down, Wanda shared how much she appreciated the team's presence and said she believed God had sent them to help.

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K-9 Comfort Dogs in action

On Sunday, LCC church affiliates St. Paul Des Peres, Missouri, and Timothy St. Louis, brought K-9 Comfort Dogs Tabby, Zion, and Noah to partner church Bethlehem St. Louis, which has served as a hub for community members, distributing food and supplies, operating as a call center, and welcoming those who need shelter. Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling invited the community to attend the Sunday service and spend time cuddling with the comfort dogs.  

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries volunteers were:
Sheryl Schucart with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion
Ruth Agne with K-9 Comfort Dog Tabby
Ministry Partners Sue and Jon Burford with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion and Tabby
Glenn Nielsen with K-9 Comfort Dog Noah

At LCC, we never go where we are not invited. We never charge those we serve.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

DONATE TO THE MAY 2025 TORNADO RESPONSE FUND
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LCC begins disaster response deployment in tornado-stricken Missouri, other states

5/20/2025

 
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DONATE - May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund
For Concordia Seminary St. Louis, a spirit of praise fills the hearts of faculty, staff, and students this week.

Last Friday, severe weather struck the campus a few hours after the Theological Diploma Service ended, resulting in widespread tree damage and debris in the area. Commencement exercises were pushed back 24 hours, but there was reason to be grateful.

“First and foremost, I thank the LORD that no one was hurt during today’s storm,” said Seminary President Dr. Thomas J. Egger through Concordia’s website and social media. “Even amid the debris and disappointment, we give thanks for the many students, staff and volunteers who have already stepped in to help clean up and prepare for today.”

The storms that hit parts of St. Louis were part of a larger weather pattern that included multiple tornadoes over three days in multiple states in the Plains, Midwest, and Mid-South, leaving a trail of devastation and damage.

​Across eastern Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky, at least 28 people perished with scores injured, countless trees uprooted, and hundreds of homes damaged.


In response, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) is deploying nine LCC Disaster Response volunteers from the Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin districts to St. Louis Thursday to Sunday to work at Concordia Seminary. That team, and other teams, will provide chainsaw assistance and debris removal with heavy equipment at multiple sites this week to serve the Missouri, Southern Illinois, and other Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) districts. LCC will work alongside other Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) participating in recovery efforts. 

Additionally, a LCC Care Team trained in Spiritual First Aid™ is mobilizing to help Rev. Gerard Bolling of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis, which is serving as a call center, distribution hub, and a shelter. With many stores without power, there is urgent need for tangible goods, such as diapers, and food. The Care Team is delivering the first round of critical care supplies this week.  
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Preparations began on Monday when Rev. Ross Johnson, LCMS Director of Disaster Response, invited LCC to help the Synod with recovery after an EF-3 tornado struck parts of St. Louis. LCC volunteers will travel there this week for cleanup work and assistance to the community. 
 
LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer and LCC Disaster Response Director Deaconess Kathy O’Day have been in communication with District Disaster Response Coordinators in Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky, as well as engaged in conversations with LCMS pastors in the affected regions. 

  • In the Missouri District, District Disaster Response Coordinator Kris Schuldt reports that the tree damage is extensive around parts of St. Louis and will require much LERT chainsaw assistance. More than 100 trees have fallen at Concordia Seminary and at least 60 more at the Park. The campus chapel and two apartment buildings were also damaged by falling trees.
  • In Springfield, Missouri, residents are still cleaning up from an EF-2 tornado in early May, and DR Director O’Day will help with damage assessments this week and assist in recovery responses.
  • Disaster Response is monitoring the town of Lincoln, Missouri, which was hit Tuesday by a tornado.
  • In the Southern Illinois District, the town of Marion was struck by an EF-4 tornado with 190 mph winds, causing major destruction. Just today, the district has gotten into the town to assess damage, and LCC Disaster Response is available to help if called upon.
  • In the Mid-South District, multiple towns in Kentucky, including London and Somerset, suffered widespread destruction and 17 fatalities. LCC has made contact with District Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Trae Fistler and local LERT volunteers who are working across the area for assistance.

“So many lives in so many areas have been upended and torn apart. Families are entering this week without loved ones, homes, power, and basic needs. They need our prayers and our help right now.” Rev. Singer said. “LCC is preparing to be there with them, ready to offer emergency assistance, tangible support, and most importantly, the comfort and hope found only in Jesus Christ.”

LCC can provide this assistance because of faithful, generous donors and volunteers who are willing to support and serve. 
 
“The financial support you can offer right now will go directly to helping families and LCMS congregations across the region and bring hope to the hurting,” Rev. Singer said. 
 
Your earnest prayers and kindhearted support are greatly appreciated by the many people overwhelmed by these storms and those who are responding with help. LCC asks that its supporters to pray for families and individuals affected, as well as LCC’s preparations to serve, along with favorable weather conditions to allow for ongoing cleanup and recovery efforts.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

DONATE - May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund

Lutheran Church Charities Leads Chainsaw Safety Training in Louisiana

5/19/2025

 
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At the invitation of Pastor Paul Ernewein of the Southern District Disaster Response Coordinator (DDRC), Lutheran Church Charities conducted a Basic LCMS Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) Chainsaw Operation and Safety classroom training in Slidell, Louisiana, on May 16. The class was co-led by LCC/LCMS Chainsaw Certified Instructors Marty Johnson and Pete Springmire.

On Saturday, May 17, four Iowa West LERT members participated in hands-on field work, serving as sawyers and draggers to clear leaning and fallen trees from a congregation member’s property.
 
Under the supervision of the LCC chainsaw instructors, the new LERT volunteers received individual instruction and guidance as they safely practiced felling and bucking trees and limbs while working alongside experienced team members.

Learn More & Donate - LCC Disaster Response Ministry

Serving Safely: Iowa West LERT Volunteers Train and Serve at Camp Okoboji

5/5/2025

 
At the invitation of Iowa West District Disaster Response Coordinator Julie Mann, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) led a Basic LCMS LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) Chainsaw Operation and Safety Training at Camp Okoboji in Milford, Iowa, on May 2. The classroom instruction was co-led by LCC/LCMS Certified Chainsaw Instructors Ed Boerman, Marty Johnson, and Pete Springmire.
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The hands-on portion of the training took place on Saturday, May 3, with 18 newly trained LERT volunteers stepping into action from Iowa West, Minnesota South, Missouri, North Dakota, and South Dakota Districts.
 
Working as sawyers and draggers, they cleared leaning, downed, and dead trees, as well as brush and limbs throughout the campgrounds.
 
Under the direct supervision and support of the LCC instructors, participants practiced essential safety skills while learning to fell and buck trees as part of a chainsaw team. The day was marked by strong teamwork, servant hearts, and district-wide fellowship.

The efforts didn’t end there. Following the two-day training event, Ed Boerman, along with David Vollrath and Ken Stotmeister from the Northern Illinois District (NID), remained on-site through Tuesday to continue clearing hazardous trees and brush—ensuring Camp Okoboji is safe and welcoming for campers this summer. The work of these dedicated LERT volunteers has been deeply appreciated.
DONATE - LCC DISASTER RELIEF FUND

New California Lutheran Early Response Team Serves at Pop-Up Event Attended by Thousands

4/15/2025

 
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It was a day of “undeniable joy” and “showing up for families.”

More than 4,700 Southern California residents turned out Saturday, April 12,  for the Recovery Pop-Up at the Dream Center event in Los Angeles — and in the middle of it all was the newly formed Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) from St. John’s Lutheran Charge in Orange, CA, lending their hands to families impacted by the state’s wildfires.

From assembling lanyards to gathering and carrying household goods to their vehicles, the St. John’s team donned their bright yellow vests with crosses, representing Lutheran Church Charities, and were a helping presence at the massive Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) production sponsored by Global Empowerment Mission. More than 1,300 families were counted for a day of carnival fun, free resources, and community connection.

“We walked around and offered assistance,” said Jason Johnson, Disaster Crisis Response and Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for LCC’s West Coast region. “Many people felt comfortable approaching us and sharing their stories.”

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"One family’s home survived the fire, but smoke damage has prevented them from living in it. But they are making it, thanks to help from friends they are living with," Johnson said.

Another family lost their home, but they were able to find their grandmother’s ring while sifting through the remains.

Others are still coping with loss.

A mom with two teen daughters lost pictures of grandparents in the fire. A missionary attending Fuller Seminary saw her home burned, but her faith has kept her strong.
   
“From the smiles of the families to the dancing and laughter to the deep, soul-touching connections created, it was powerful,” said Elizabeth Jernberg of Global Empowerment Mission, who thanked the St. John’s Orange LERT volunteers for being there. “You all showed up under the sun, with sweat and smiles, and gave it your all. You should be incredibly proud.”

How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster! If you feel called to support this mission, consider donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, so we can continue to BE PRESENT to bring hope to those suffering and in need.
DONATE - LCC DISASTER RELIEF FUND

Chainsaw Volunteers Continue to Bring Hope and Relief to Storm-Stricken Valparaiso Homes

4/15/2025

 

Restoring Dignity and Hope with Professionalism and Compassion

Volunteers Rally to Serve in the Wake of Devastating Winds

Last week, a dedicated team of LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) chainsaw volunteers returned to Valparaiso, Indiana, to assist homeowners still reeling from the aftermath of 90 mph straight-line winds. Over the course of two weeks, Kathy O’Day, Director of Disaster Response for LCC, Jamie Miller, LCC Disaster Response Equipment Manager, and 16 LERT chainsaw volunteers worked tirelessly to restore hope and safety to 18 homes, many of which were owned by members of Immanuel and Christ Lutheran Churches.
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Compassion in Action: A Story of Neighborly Love

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Among the many touching stories of service, two elderly neighbors—aged 88 and 91—faced an especially daunting challenge. A massive pine tree had fallen between their yards, blocking their access and creating a hazardous situation. A nearby company had quoted an exorbitant price, requiring a crane to remove the tree, which neither neighbor could afford.

But the LERT volunteers stepped in, cutting down the tree with care and precision, removing it from the property at no cost. As a final touch, they raked the yards, clearing debris and leaving a clean, safe space behind. The elderly women expressed heartfelt gratitude, overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to them.

Restoring Dignity and Hope with Professionalism and Compassion

Another set of neighbors, one of whom is a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, faced similar challenges when several trees fell across their yards, damaging their fence and making the area unsafe. They had also received a high estimate for tree removal—another expense they couldn’t bear.

Thanks to the LERT team’s ministry, the work was completed without charge, with professionalism and skill. The homeowners were incredibly thankful, recognizing the blessing of having this vital service offered through their church community.
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A Blessing to Serve: Bringing Relief in Christ’s Name

Through these selfless acts of service, the LERT team not only cleared fallen trees but also brought the light of hope to these neighbors, many of whom had nowhere else to turn. In a world filled with hardship, the LERT volunteers’ willingness to serve in the name of the Lord brought comfort and healing in a tangible way. It’s a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make when we offer it freely, especially in times of crisis.
How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training (more details below), donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.
DONATE - LCC DISASTER RELIEF FUND

Chainsaws, Crosses, and Compassion: LERT Volunteers Bring Hope After Storms and Floods

4/8/2025

 
Responding to Devastation in Valparaiso, IN

On Sunday, March 30, the town of Valparaiso, Indiana, was struck by 90 mph straight-line winds that toppled 110 utility poles, tore through rooftops, downed trees, and left residents without power for days. In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) was contacted by Immanuel and Christ Lutheran Churches to aid their communities.
LCC Director of Disaster Response, Deaconess Kathy O’Day, deployed LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team) chainsaw volunteers who served 14 homes over the course of a week. The very first call came from a teacher at Immanuel whose home had sustained significant tree damage—one tree punched holes through their roof while another destroyed their deck. LERT volunteers quickly removed both trees and tarped the roof, preventing further water damage and helping the family begin the road to recovery.

Power outages and downed lines delayed work at some homes. One homeowner, recovering from a fractured hip, had no power for five days. Volunteers cleared limbs from her deck and promised to return when it was safe. The simple gesture of clearing her deck gave her hope and brought a smile to her face. When the crew returned to fully clear her yard, she expressed deep gratitude for their compassion and care.
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Another stop brought the team to the home of a single mom and piano teacher, whose studio had been rendered inaccessible by three large uprooted spruce trees. Unable to afford help, she prayed for a miracle. Through a recommendation from one of her student’s parents, she found LCC. Within hours, the trees and root balls were gone, her yard cleaned and raked, and a cross was cut into the stump of one of the trees. Moved to tears, she said, “This cross will always remind me to trust God to provide for my needs and that He sent angels here to take care of me.”
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Rebuilding in Tryon, North Carolina

Farther south, another team served at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, NC, still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Though the congregation had hoped to return to their sanctuary by Easter, there remains much to be done.
LERT volunteers made significant progress—clearing and insulating the crawl space, installing lighting, laying new floors and tiles, building storage units, painting, and digging trenches to divert water away from the church. They also beautified the grounds, taking advantage of the pleasant weather to do landscaping.

During their deployment, four volunteers stayed behind at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church in Hendersonville, where they were housed, to help redirect a creek that was eroding the church’s roadside. Their trench work helped prevent further damage to an area awaiting a new sidewalk.

Several members of the Trinity congregation dropped by with meals and stories. One woman, Mrs. L., shared her experience of evacuating her home and witnessing the destruction in her beloved community. Seeing the church and her home slowly restored, she said, was restoring hope not just for her but for many in Tryon.
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Restoring a Beloved Camp in Linville, NC

Meanwhile, a small but determined team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL traveled to Camp Linn Haven in Linville, NC. The LCMS summer camp sustained extensive damage to its chapel, kitchen, main hall, 18 cabins, and bridge due to Hurricane Helene.

Volunteers assisted with hanging drywall, repairing siding, staining, painting, and general storm cleanup. Although there’s more work to be done, their efforts made meaningful progress in preparing the camp for future campers and ensuring the facility remains a safe and joyful space for all.
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Gratitude for Hands that Serve

Lutheran Church Charities extends heartfelt thanks to the many LERT volunteers who offered their time, talent, and compassion in these recent deployments:
  • Cross, Yorkville IL: Clay and Linda Arnold; Daeson Blue; Chris Coulombe; Heather Fiala; John Goettsch; Carrie Howard
  • Bethany, Naperville: David, Gretchen, and Isabel Brouch; Alex Clasen; Pastor Seth Clemmer; Tye, Linda, Henry, and Ken Fox; Beth Hahn; James and Susan Jablonsky; Grace Ryan; Judy and Nathan Teske
  • Good Shepherd, Elgin: David Vollrath
  • Immanuel, Palatine: Chris Johnson
  • St. Peter, Gilberts: Aleis Vasa

This team truly enjoyed the hospitality shown to them by the congregations of Trinity, Tryon and Mt. Pisgah, Hendersonville and will continue to hold both congregations in their prayers.

The Southeastern District has continued opportunities to serve at several locations in North Carolina. Please consider volunteering your time and talents to help those in need recover from Hurricane Helene.
How You Can HelpLERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.
DONATE - LCC DISASTER RESPONSE FUND

LERT VOLUNTEERS PROVIDE RELIEF IN TORNADO-STRICKEN COMMUNITIES

4/2/2025

 
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Answering the Call to Serve in Missouri
Last week, Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) volunteers stepped up to serve in two states impacted by destructive EF-2 tornadoes. Their efforts provided much-needed relief and hope to communities facing overwhelming devastation.

One dedicated volunteer, Bill Pietsch from Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia, IL, traveled to Missouri to assist in the cleanup. Serving out of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rolla, MO, Bill worked alongside Missouri District teams to clear damaged trees.

His decision to deploy there was personal—his extended family farms and resides in the area. Equipped with his MT-100 Bobcat, he helped move heavy logs, limbs, and debris, significantly impacting a place close to his heart. Bill expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, feeling blessed to support residents in a community he knows well.
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Bringing Aid to Arkansas Communities
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Meanwhile, St. John Lutheran Church LERT chainsaw volunteers Dave Mummah and Rich Wren deployed to Batesville, Arkansas, to assist the Mid-South District. Operating out of Hope Lutheran Church, they utilized a ditch witch to aid in clearing tree and structural damage in Batesville, Cushman, and Melbourne.

One heavily affected property saw hundreds of trees either uprooted or snapped in half across several wooded acres.

With a team of 10 volunteers —including three equipment operators, four sawyers, and three pullers — the team focused on clearing the immediate backyard between the house and the cement slab where a woodshop once stood.

This hard-working team successfully cut and stacked approximately 50 trees in just five hours!
Gratitude and Faith  Amidst the Storm
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The homeowner, deeply moved by the volunteers’ efforts, shared how the Lord had watched over his family during the storm. With heartfelt gratitude, he thanked the team for their hard work and compassion.

Through their service, these LERT volunteers embodied Christ’s love in action, bringing physical relief and spiritual encouragement to those in need. We continue to pray for all affected by these storms and for the dedicated volunteers who answered the call to serve.

Rebuilding at two North Carolina sites
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Elsewhere in the U.S., a team of 20 LCC LERT volunteers, mostly from Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville, IL, is deployed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, N.C. They are helping to rebuild the church after massive flooding from Hurricane Helene.

The Trinity congregation hopes to return to their building in time for Easter Sunday. On the first day of work, the team helped clear the crawl space, remove floor tiles, build shelves, and paint bathrooms. A few of the team members (pictured at right) dug a trench to help lay pipes to divert water. They will be working hard to help Trinity reach it goal of worshipping on Resurrection Day!

In another part of the Tarheel State, a team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, (pictured below) is serving at Camp Linn Haven, N.C. They are also helping with rebuilding after Hurricane Helene destruction, doing drywalling, siding, staining, and cleanup. They are making progress to restore the camp for future guests.

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How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.
DONATE - LCC DISASTER RELIEF FUND

TWENTY LCC VOLUNTEERS HELP REBUILD GRACE LUTHERAN IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL, AFTER HURRICANE DAMAGE

3/5/2025

 
Grace Lutheran Church and School in St. Petersburg, FL, suffered significant damage from Hurricane Milton in September 2024. The storm caused severe flooding, which devastated several rooms within the church and school. Since then, they have been gradually rebuilding with the support of their congregation and Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) from across the country.
 
Last week, 20 LERT and Spiritual First Aid™ (SFA)-certified volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle, IL, and Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, teamed up to assist Grace Lutheran's Pastor Kevin Loughran with building projects at the church and school, all while serving and supporting the congregation and school families.
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DONATE - LCC HURRICANE SUPPORT FUND
The team members shared their experiences while working at Grace Lutheran:
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"Our efforts at Grace Lutheran Church made a significant positive impact, bringing hope and joy to the teachers, students, and pastors of the community. Each day, the culinary class delighted us with delicious meals, fostering a spirit of collaboration and warmth."
 
"Amid the hustle and bustle of ongoing classes, we painted and engaged with the friendly students, creating a vibrant atmosphere of connection and support.

The resilience of the teachers, who maintained calmness despite the challenges, is inspiring, as they only missed eight days of school for the 310 students enrolled from pre-K to 8th grade. Some teachers lost their homes from Hurricane Milton.

Our conversations with them fostered a sense of belonging, as we felt like part of the community during this transformative experience."
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"We poured our hearts into the work because we wanted to help in any way we could. We painted 40 or more outside classroom doors, 4 bathrooms, cafeteria walls, narthex, and walls between classrooms. We bought plants to put out in front of the church, hoping to make the congregation bring back smiles on their faces."
 
"Witnessing older students mentor younger ones and hearing the children's joyful songs during chapel was a beautiful experience. Each moment was infused with prayer, reminding everyone of God's guiding presence in our efforts. The experience left everyone with full hearts, a renewed sense of purpose, and a shared belief in the transformative impact of serving others through Christ's teachings."

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The team was grateful for the opportunity to serve both the church and the school. As they watched the team at work, the students frequently expressed their gratitude and grew increasingly optimistic, witnessing the transformation unfold right before their eyes each day.
 
Lutheran Church Charities extends sincere thanks to the following LERT and SFA volunteers and congregations from Illinois for their unwavering service, heartfelt prayers, and steadfast support. Your commitment makes a profound difference and brings hope to those suffering and in need.
 
Cross, Yorkville - Linda Arnold, Pastor Erik Gauss, Carrie Howard, Barb and Gary Lewison, Mike Moe, John Sleezer
 
Trinity, Lisle - Ed and Jan Boerman, Dale and Beth Durfey, Linda Fergusen, Jim and Veronica Reuter, Ed Schwartz, Skip and Karen Sorenson, Wayne and Sandy Witek, Kent Worrell

DONATE - LCC HURRICANE SUPPORT FUND
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